SDG 03: Good Health and Well-Being
Blood Donation Campaign 2025
Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), in collaboration with the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), is launching a blood donation campaign as part of UDST’s Healthy Campus Committee initiative. The campaign aims to encourage students, staff, and community members to contribute to this life-saving act that supports the healthcare system in Qatar.
Eligibility criteria emphasize the importance of donor safety and health. Donors must be between 18–65 years old, weigh at least 50 kg, and be in good health. Additional requirements include adequate rest, a healthy diet, and disclosure of any medications. Restrictions apply to those who have recently undergone Hijama (cupping therapy), received tattoos, traveled to malaria-endemic regions, or are recovering from COVID-19 or recent vaccinations.
This campaign promotes community participation in healthcare, enhances public awareness of healthy lifestyles, and strengthens Qatar’s readiness for medical emergencies and blood supply sustainability.
Wellness Strategy 2025–2027
SEPTEMBER 2025
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) launched its Wellness Strategy 2025–2027, a comprehensive framework to promote holistic well-being across its community. The strategy focuses on eight dimensions of wellness: physical, mental, social, occupational, environmental, financial, spiritual, and cultural.
It includes a monthly wellness calendar, targeted events, awareness campaigns, expanded resources, and applied research to strengthen wellness services for students and staff. The strategy emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement, positioning wellness as a defining feature of the UDST student experience.
Celebrating National Sport Day 2025
FEBRUARY 2025
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) celebrated National Sport Day 2025 with a vibrant program of sports, wellness, and community activities in collaboration with partners such as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), BeBasketball, and TnT Athletics. The event featured diverse activities including a Family Walk/Run, football and basketball tournaments, fitness obstacle courses, and interactive sessions for tennis, padel, cricket, and badminton.
As a FISU Platinum Certified Healthy Campus, UDST reinforced its strategic commitment to well-being, active living, and community engagement, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Announcing Official Approval of the 'Pharmacy Technologist' Title and Scope of Practice by The Department of Healthcare Professions
FEBRUARY 2025
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) received official approval from the Ministry of Public Health for the “Pharmacy Technologist” title and Scope of Practice. This achievement marks a national milestone in professionalizing the pharmacy technology field and empowering graduates to play a crucial role in Qatar’s healthcare system.
UDST’s Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy Technology program — the first of its kind locally, regionally, and internationally — integrates patient-focused education with scientific disciplines such as drug discovery, pharmaceutical manufacturing, regulatory affairs, quality assurance, and digital health. The program aligns with international frameworks, including the International Pharmaceutical Federation Development Goals, WHO Guidelines, and NAPRA standards, ensuring global relevance and excellence.
This initiative directly supports the Qatar National Vision 2030 – Human Development Pillar, focusing on building a highly skilled, innovative healthcare workforce that strengthens national health systems and promotes sustainable development.
UDST teams shine in 10th GCC Universities Sports Tournament
FEBRUARY 2025
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) achieved exceptional success at the 10th GCC Universities Sports Tournament held at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. Competing against 17 universities across seven sports disciplines, UDST secured 3 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medal, ranking third overall among Gulf universities for the first time.
The university’s athletes demonstrated excellence in badminton, swimming, and athletics, reflecting UDST’s strong focus on student wellness, teamwork, and leadership.
President Dr. Salem Al-Naemi emphasized that this success showcases UDST’s commitment to promoting health, wellness, and holistic education while encouraging students to balance academics and athletics. The initiative also strengthens regional collaboration and community engagement through sports diplomacy.
Pinning Ceremony to Honor Future Healthcare Professionals
FEBRUARY 2025
UDST celebrated its latest cohort of healthcare graduates with a prestigious Pinning Ceremony, marking their transition from students to professional healthcare practitioners. The event honored their dedication, academic achievements, and hands-on clinical training, symbolized by the ceremonial pin, a testament to their commitment to excellence in patient care. The ceremony highlighted the growing impact of UDST’s College of Health Sciences, which has seen a 35% increase in enrollment over the past three years. Graduates are now prepared to enter Qatar’s dynamic healthcare sector, supported by strategic partnerships with Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and Primary Health Care Corporation. As they embark on their professional journeys, these graduates carry forward UDST’s mission of shaping a future driven by innovation, compassionate care, and medical excellence.
Exploring the Evolution of Medical Imaging
FEBRUARY 2025
The Medical Radiography Department at UDST recently hosted an engaging World Radiography Day event, bringing together students and faculty to explore the advancements in medical imaging. The day was filled with interactive challenges, hands-on simulations, and immersive experiences that connected historic breakthroughs with modern innovations. Students participated in fun yet educational games that tested their clinical imaging knowledge, encouraging critical thinking. Simulation sessions allowed participants to engage with medical imaging technology, gaining practical experience. The event featured various booths showcasing cutting edge technologies. The MRI station offered a chance to hear the distinctive sounds of the powerful magnet, providing a unique patient perspective. At the ultrasound booth, students used simulators to explore anatomical structures in real-time. The interventional imaging station allowed participants to practice ultrasound guided biopsies, demonstrating the precision of modern procedures. The event highlighted the transformative role of medical imaging in healthcare and inspired future healthcare professionals to contribute to this evolving field.
UDST Faculty and Students Collaborate with Albayan 2 Secondary School to Develop Innovative Shopping Scooter for Elderly
MARCH 2025
UDST’s College of Engineering and Technology, led by Dr. Hassan Mahasneh and five CET students, collaborated with Albayan 2 Secondary School students to design and develop a functional shopping scooter for elderly individuals.
The project utilized advanced CAD software, motors, batteries, braking and steering systems, and safety features. The hands-on execution included rigorous testing to ensure functionality, user safety, and mobility enhancement.
This initiative also emphasized social responsibility, community engagement, and nurturing practical problem-solving skills among secondary school students, bridging academia and societal needs.
Inspiring Talk on Happiness and Wellbeing
APRIL 2025
UDST’s Foundation Program hosted a thought-provoking keynote session titled “Happiness is Not Just a Feeling” by Dr. Salim Zakhour, a Doctor of Philosophy and certified Happiness Coach. The session, scheduled just ahead of exams, aimed to help students and faculty manage stress and maintain emotional wellbeing during a demanding academic period. Dr. Zakhour explored the concept of happiness beyond fleeting emotions, emphasizing life satisfaction built through gratitude and intentional living. He guided attendees through practical reflections on how to cultivate happiness through daily actions and mindset shifts. The session concluded with a self-assessment questionnaire that encouraged participants to reflect on their own levels of happiness.
Health Promotion in Action: Committing to Community Well-Being
APRIL 2025
The College of Health Sciences at UDST partnered with Qatar University’s College of Pharmacy and the EPICORE Research Centre at the University of Alberta to deliver a community-focused Health Promotion Campaign. Hosted at one of Wellcare Pharmacy’s largest branches, the initiative was part of a research project under the Undergraduate Research Experience Program (UREP) and supported by the Qatar National Research Fund. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease risk factors and promote healthier lifestyles. Services included cardiovascular risk assessments via a mobile app, health checks, and personalized counseling. It was delivered by an interprofessional team of UDST Pharmacy Technology students, licensed nurses, and QU Pharmacy students. Meanwhile, on campus, UDST nursing students led additional health promotion activities, showcasing evidence-based projects under expert guidance. Both events reflected UDST’s strong commitment to community wellness, interdisciplinary collaboration, and experiential learning.
Environmental Health Students Join Food Safety Inspections
MAY 2025
Environmental Health students from UDST’s College of Health Sciences recently joined Shahaniya Municipality’s food safety team for a practicum focused on real-world inspections. Visiting restaurants, hypermarkets, dairy plants, and organic farms, the students assessed hygiene practices, storage conditions, and food safety compliance under expert supervision. They identified issues such as improper temperatures, expired items, and sanitation gaps, while also highlighting strong practices in some establishments. The experience enhanced their technical skills in hazard analysis and critical control points, and improved their ability to communicate professionally with business owners. Students also led food safety awareness sessions with staff and customers, encouraging proper food handling and hygiene. This practicum provided a powerful link between academic learning, and the vital role environmental health professionals play in protecting public health.
Information Session with Alanoud Hamad Al-Marri
JUNE 2025
The College of Health Sciences at UDST welcomed Alanoud Hamad Al-Marri, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery Workforce at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), for a special information session. The session was dedicated to graduates of UDST’s Diploma in Practical Nursing (DPN) program, with 39 students from the program’s second cohort in attendance. This milestone event marked the first recruitment focused session delivered by HMC specifically for UDST’s DPN graduates. It reflected the growing collaboration between the university and Qatar’s leading healthcare provider to support workforce development and ensure smooth graduate integration into clinical practice. Alanoud Al-Marri, a visionary healthcare leader and proud alumna of UDST’s Respiratory Technology program, brought invaluable insight and experience to the discussion. Her visit underscored the vital connection between education and professional opportunity in advancing Qatar’s healthcare sector.
Concluded ‘Path to Wellness’ Program for Seniors with Ehsan Center
JUNE 2025
UDST, in collaboration with the Ehsan Center, successfully concluded the Path to Wellness program, an initiative focused on supporting the health and well-being of senior citizens. Held on UDST’s campus, the program welcomed 22 participants and offered an engaging, hands-on experience centered around diabetes management, nutrition, functional fitness, and mental health. Spanning two weeks, the program featured themed wellness days and included light physical activity, aqua aerobics, health assessments, cooking demonstrations, and educational sessions promoting healthy aging. Seniors learned practical skills such as reading nutrition labels, smart grocery shopping, and developing sustainable wellness habits. The initiative reaffirmed UDST’s commitment to community engagement and lifelong learning. It concluded with a celebratory event, where participants received certificates and awards. The program exemplified UDST’s role in delivering applied education with real-world impact, strengthening social responsibility and promoting healthy, active lifestyles in Qatar.
Students Present Research at World Conference on Tobacco Control 2025
JULY 2025
UDST proudly participated in the World Conference on Tobacco Control 2025 in Dublin, where six students from the College of Health Sciences, led by Dr. Shannan MacNevin, showcased the university’s research on youth smoking behaviors in Qatar. Their e-poster presentation positioned UDST among global leaders working to address pressing public health challenges. The students actively engaged with international experts, attended high-level sessions, and built connections that will further strengthen UDST’s commitment to impactful, real-world research. A highlight of their participation was meeting Dr. Ahmad AlMulla, Director of the Tobacco Control Center at Hamad Medical Corporation, reinforcing UDST’s close collaboration with Qatar’s leading health institutions. Representing UDST were Kryzchan Zapanta, Amiel Panda, Ayesha Sideeqa, Raniah Farooq, and Sanaa Shahzad, who demonstrated professionalism and dedication on the global stage. Their contribution highlights UDST’s mission to empower students as researchers, advocates, and global citizens, and to ensure the university plays an active role in advancing health outcomes locally and internationally.
PHCC, UDST complete Phase 3 of GMO training program
OCTOBER 2025
Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has significantly expanded its mental health services to strengthen patient-centered care and improve access to psychological support across Qatar. The initiative includes the operation of the National Mental Health Helpline (16000) and the Women’s Mental Health Helpline, offering immediate, confidential support through trained professionals. These services provide crisis counseling, lifestyle and medication guidance, and mental health support for women throughout different life stages.
HMC has also increased inpatient capacity at Mesaieed General Hospital, developed specialist services in perinatal, forensic, child and adolescent psychiatry, and expanded community-based mental health clinics in partnership with the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC). Research plays a major role, with ongoing clinical studies directly influencing patient care and service delivery. These initiatives collectively promote a comprehensive, equitable, and research-driven approach to mental health in Qatar.
UDST observes World Mental Health Day
OCTOBER 2025
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) celebrated World Mental Health Day with a campus-wide event themed “Community Care: Supporting Mental Health in Challenging Times.”
The event promoted awareness of mental well-being through interactive booths, wellness activities, and educational sessions focused on resilience, compassion, and inclusivity.
Under the leadership of Dr. Salem bin Nasser Al-Naemi, UDST reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of care as part of its status as a Healthy Campus recognized by the International University Sports Federation.
The initiative also empowered students through peer-led engagement and workshops, highlighting the shared responsibility of mental health support within the community.
WHO Social Reels Challenge
MAY 2024
Another proud moment came when UDST students participated in the WHO Social Reels Challenge. Their project, “Youth at Risk,” which focused on the harmful marketing tactics of the tobacco industry, became a finalist in the prestigious competition. This success demonstrated the University’s strong advocacy for public health, particularly in protecting youth from dangerous industries. International Respiratory Care Week served as a reminder of the importance of lung health. UDST’s interactive sessions on smoking cessation and lung disease prevention provided a platform for both students and professionals to engage in meaningful dialogue, reinforcing the university’s ongoing commitment to health and wellness.
“By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being”
World Food Safety Day
AUGUST 2024
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) has always been at the forefront of promoting public health, and this year was no exception. The University took part in the World Food Safety Day celebrations, an event that united faculty, students, and experts from the Municipality of Al-Sheehaniya to highlight the significance of food safety. At the heart of the event were interactive booths, where attendees learned about best practices for food handling. Demonstrations on contamination prevention became a valuable learning experience for all. A lecture on food safety laws and the global consequences of foodborne illnesses added a deeper understanding of the issue. The collaboration between UDST and the local municipality reinforced the commitment to public health and the SDG goals.
International University Sport Week (IUSW)
SEPTEMBER 2024
The University’s involvement in promoting an active and healthy lifestyle took center stage during International University Sport Week (IUSW). Celebrated annually, the event brought students and staff together to engage in a range of sports activities, from basketball tournaments to FusionFit classes. The celebrations also highlighted UDST’s sports achievements, notably the Male Football Wolves, who competed in the 2nd Asian Universities Sports Federation Football Competition in China. This marked another milestone in UDST’s journey, fostering a community spirit among students and encouraging them to live healthier lives.