University of Doha for Science and Technology celebrates the graduation of the Class of 2026

Under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) celebrated the graduation of the first batch of the Class of 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre.

The ceremony was attended by

Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa,

President of the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau and Secretary General of the National Planning Council as a speaker; alongside other Excellencies, Ministers of State, and with the attendance of UDST Board of Trustees’ Chairman His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada and the board members; His Excellency Dr. Salem Al-Naemi President of UDST, the University’s staff and faculty, and graduates’ families.

The number of graduates this year is 1,321 students from various programs and disciplines. The graduating class includes more than 250 outstanding students.

The class includes 484 graduates from the College of Business, 285 graduates from the College of Computing and Information Technology, 341 graduates from the College of Engineering and Technology, and 211 graduates from the College of Health Sciences, reflecting the diversity of the university’s academic programs and the breadth of its fields of specialization.

The Class of 2026 is distinguished by the graduation of the first cohorts from several newly introduced academic programs. These include the Digital Communication and Media Production program, developed in collaboration with the Qatar Media Corporation, as well as the first graduates of Construction Engineering, the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Cybersecurity, and the Master of Science in Process Safety. These programs reflect UDST’s approach and alignment with emerging fields and national priorities.

The graduating class embodies the dynamic and future-focused nature of the University’s academic offerings, spanning key fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital technologies, engineering, health sciences, and business innovation. Through experiential learning environments, advanced laboratories, simulation technologies, and industry-driven projects, students have developed the skills and competencies needed to confidently transition into the workforce.

This occasion marks a significant milestone in the journey of UDST graduates, representing the culmination of years of dedication, hands-on training, and personal growth. It also reflects the University’s commitment to applied education that places students at the center of the learning experience and bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application to meet the evolving needs of the labor market.

Throughout their academic journey, students benefited from an applied learning model centered on innovation and problem-solving, which has contributed to the development of essential skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and leadership capabilities that are vital in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, President of the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau and Secretary General of the National Planning Council addressed the graduates: "Here in Qatar, under the wise leadership of H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, may Allah protect him, we are moving with steady steps towards a clear national vision and development strategies. Our goal is to uplift and empower individuals, and to build a more sustainable and prosperous future. This endeavour demands minds that are eager to learn and individuals who embrace responsibility and possess a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact on their society and nation.”

In his speech, H.E. Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of the University of Doha for Science and Technology, said:

“Today, we celebrate a graduating class that can truly be described as exceptional. Our resilient students have persevered through a year marked by unprecedented challenges and now stand before us, alongside their professors and loved ones, as a testament to the enduring power of education. Their journey reminds us that education extends far beyond classrooms and laboratories; it is fundamentally centered on people. It thrives in a nation that embraces education, dialogue, and knowledge as the foundation for progress and societal advancement.”

He further highlighted the university’s strategic direction, stating: “We recognize that success is not achieved through ambition alone, but through agile strategies and carefully designed plans that ensure readiness for every possibility. These efforts are driven by measurable performance indicators, sustained dedication, and an unwavering commitment to advancing a clear and enduring national vision.

In alignment with the State’s strategic priorities, the university has introduced four new academic programs: the Master of Science in Midwifery, the Executive Master of Health Administration, and the Bachelor’s and Diploma programs in Animal Health and Veterinary Science. With these additions, the university now offers a total of 80 academic programs, all developed in accordance with the highest national and international standards to address the evolving demands of both the local and global economy.

The University continues to place strong emphasis on advanced professional training and applied research in critical areas including sustainability and renewable energy, food security, health technologies, and digital transformation. We have also announced the development of a comprehensive strategy aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. This initiative extends beyond environmental responsibility; it represents a strategic investment in the future of the economy, public health, and national security, while reinforcing the goals of sustainable development under Qatar National Vision 2030.”

He commended the students and praised their dedication, stating: “Before me stands an exceptional generation of innovators and emerging leaders in the world of business. I see pioneers shaping the digital future, engineers driving progress and innovation, and highly qualified professionals prepared to deliver the highest standards of healthcare. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. You are our pride and the finest ambassadors of the University wherever your journey may lead you.”

The Class of 2026 valedictorian, Mohamad Al-Qassabi expressed his happiness to be representing all his fellow honor graduates during the ceremony and said: “It is a profound honor to graduate from an academic institution that spared no effort in supporting me throughout my educational journey. During my years of study, I had the opportunity to participate in international competitions, where my project, “OPAS”, an Offside and Performance Analysis System for football, received international recognition and acclaim. I was also privileged to represent the State of Qatar and various youth organizations on global platforms such as the United Nations, in addition to participating in a range of workshops and lectures at both the local and international levels. I was subsequently ranked among the top five inventors worldwide at the CIF Exhibition and among the top three inventors in the Arab world. I extend my deepest appreciation to my University, which nurtured my ambitions and empowered my achievements.  My sincere gratitude goes to everyone who supported us throughout this journey, from our professors, who devoted their time and expertise to guiding us, to our parents, who remained a constant source of encouragement and support. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to our beloved State of Qatar for its unwavering commitment to education and innovation as fundamental drivers of national development.”

As the first cohort of the Class of 2026 embarks on its next chapter, the University looks ahead to tomorrow’s second graduation ceremony with great pride in its students, who now move forward into the next stage of their journey.

Graduates carry with them the University’s core values of excellence, integrity, and lifelong learning, and are fully prepared to contribute to the service of their communities and to addressing future challenges at both the local and global levels.