H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of QF, after officially launching the Joint Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum and Arab Expatriate Scientists Network Symposium at the Qatar National Convention Centre yesterday. Aisha Al Musallam
By Fazeena Saleem
DOHA: Qatar National Research Strategy 2012, a national framework to support and guide the country’s ambitious science and research endeavours, was unveiled yesterday at the Joint Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum and Arab Expatriate Scientists Network Symposium inaugurated by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.
In its third year, the Annual Research Forum recognises the progress in research being made by national stakeholders, international partners and multinational companies in Qatar and, for the first time, establish a roadmap for implementing the Qatar National Research Strategy.
“On a regional level we want Qatar to turn into a hub for innovative thinking,” said Sheikha Moza, delivering the opening speech at the research forum begun at the Qatar National Convention Centre.
She added that Qatar has invested $68m in 53 research centres in Arab countries. The roadmap for implementing the country’s research plan aims to develop the capabilities of Qatar’s people and institutions, building a diversified economy, improving health and social welfare, supporting the security of the people and preserving the environment. It is set to achieve 23 goals, 76 objectives under five themes and will be revised as required.
The research strategy will focus on enterprise, energy and environment, computer sciences and information technology, health and social sciences, arts and humanities.
“Qatar will be an international centre for research and development excellence and innovation,” said Faisal Al Suwaidi, President of Research and Development at QF, unveiling the Qatar National Research Strategy 2012.
“Qatar National Research Strategy 2012 is a living document that will be reviewed as needed,” Al Suwaidi further said.
To implement the Qatar National Research Strategy Qatar National Research Fund will enable the research community to achieve objectives, the Rand D entities will conduct research that contributes to objectives and the Qatar Science and Technology Park will facilitate innovation and the transition of ideas into markets. Dr Thomas Zacharia, Executive Vice President of Research and Development delivered keynote speech on energy and development and the challenges faced by the world.
Organised jointly with the Arab Expatriate Scientists Network, the 2012 Forum also bring together Arab scientists from around the world, and encourage further collaboration to address our region’s needs through research. The three-day forum will focus on Qatar’s core research disciplines, Health and Biomedicine, Energy and Environment, Computing and Information Technology, Arts, Behavioural and Social Sciences, Humanities, and Islamic Studies.
