DOHA: The College of Medicine (CMED) at Qatar University (QU) signed an agreement with Maastricht University (UM), The Netherlands, to establish cooperation in education, medical research and staff/student exchange.
The agreement was signed by QU president Dr Hassan Al-Derham and UM president and chairman of the Executive Board Prof Martin Paul, in the presence of CMED dean Dr Egon Toft, HE the Ambassador of the Kingdom of The Netherlands to Qatar Burghgraef - van Eechoud, as well as QU faculty and officials from both institutions.
The terms of the agreement include collaboration for CMED's academic and administrative staff development, curriculum development, faculty visits and training, as well as staff and student exchange activities. Both institutions will also organize joint research programs and projects in areas related to medical education.
Commenting on the agreement, Dr Al-Derham said: "QU is pleased to partner with Maastricht University which will contribute to enriching CMED’s curriculum and serving students in their journey towards becoming distinguished medical professionals. This agreement is in line with QU’s commitment to meeting the national need for highly-competent locally-trained physicians by building capacity in clinical practice, medical education and research to contribute to driving the healthcare sector’s growth and development."
HE van Eechoud said: "I am thrilled a renowned Dutch university has been chosen as a key partner for building a state-of-the-art health care system in Qatar. This exiting partnership between Qatar University and Maastricht University is a perfect match. The experience, global outreach and academic aspirations of both universities will be of great benefit to both. Careful planning and thorough preparations by both parties have ensured that this partnership will hit the ground running."
Prof Paul said: "I am delighted that our two universities have agreed to enter into this cooperation. It is a true honor for us to contribute to the sustainable development of medical education and the healthcare workforce in Qatar. We are proud to collaborate with a partner institution like Qatar University, which shares our passion for excellence and professional development. The mutual trust between our two institutions will be the cornerstone for building future cooperation that enhances student and staff experience, and helps to educate the next generation of global leaders in their fields."
Dr Toft said: "This agreement forms part of a series of future collaborations between QU College of Medicine and other top international universities in the field of medical education and research. It also highlights the College’s commitment to addressing the increasing need for high-qualified doctors, and to support the country’s national strategies in healthcare and education."
QNA
