By Fazeena Saleem
DOHA: H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), at the opening session of the Arab Expatriate Science and Technology Innovation Forum (AES Forum) yesterday called scientists to take research work to the next level.
The event was hosted by Qatar Foundation Research and Development, a member of QF, and reflects QF’s commitment to building Qatar’s research capacity through the development of key sciences, thereby enhancing human capital across the nation and beyond.
“As we continue to move forward in the journey of research and development in Qatar, and without losing focus of the basic research and fundamentals, I hope you start exploring the next steps in the innovation chain, including entrepreneurship, technology development, and commercialisation,” said Sheikha Moza speaking at the AES forum held at the Qatar National Convention Centre. The AES Forum, which acts as an international hub for science and technology innovation, invites Arab scientists, researchers, technology entrepreneurs and investors from outside Qatar to engage with their local peers.
Together, these leading industry professionals set new objectives and goals for Arab-driven science and technology innovations in Qatar, the region and around the world to build momentum and excellence in their fields.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the scope of the original AES initiative has been expanded to include Arab technology entrepreneurs, investors and innovation ecosystem builders.
“Arab scientists and technology entrepreneurs are creating ideas and innovations which make the world a better and more sustainable place.
“The AES forum is a vehicle to celebrate and support these innovators and leading industry professionals.
“Qatar Foundation is proud to uphold and enable such initiatives and we are delighted to celebrate the 10th year of such an iconic event in Qatar,” said Dr Hamad Al Ibrahim, Executive Vice-President, Research and Development, QF.
The new AES vision is to create a link among Arab innovators, researchers and scientists to increase and celebrate the contributions Arabs make to the global community in the field of science and technology. This year’s gathering was, for the first time, attended by regional and international Arab participants.
Throughout the past decade, the forum has acted as a cultural catalyst, helping form many Qatari research institutes and centres in line with the Qatar National Research Strategy.
It has also been integral in attracting Arab expatriates to Qatar, assisting with the national development of human capital and expertise in the fields of science and research.
The forum has also helped facilitate and inspire collaboration on national and international research projects, assisted by organisations such as the Qatar National Research Fund.
The Peninsula
