QU president Dr Hassan al-Derham at the event. Right: A student asks a question during the ‘Meet the President’ event at QU yesterday.

The president’s office at Qatar University (QU) organised yesterday its annual “Meet the President” event to engage students in dialogue in order to discuss matters of concern and interest, and encourage their participation in university affairs.
A large number of students participated in a discussion session with QU president Dr Hassan al-Derham. The event was also attended by QU vice-presidents, college deans, heads of departments and programmes, faculty and staff.
Dr al-Derham said the gathering provides students with a platform to express their opinions, ideas, concerns and proposals.
“Focus on the student experience is one of QU’s strategic priorities and without effective two-way communication, optimising this experience is not possible,” he said.
He also pointed to the fact that many changes have occurred at QU in the last decade. “Since its inception in 1973, QU continues to build on a legacy of solid commitment to graduating students who will contribute to the progress and development of Qatar. We will continue to actively engage in initiatives that promote our role in the Qatari society and strengthen our links with organisations from the private and public sectors by placing students’ success at the core of our partnerships.
“In line with this student-centred approach, QU is committed to offering the best possible services and opportunities to optimise the student experience, deepen students’ knowledge and strengthen their personal characteristics and professional attributes and abilities.”
During the event, students asked questions, discussed concerns and commented on a wide range of topics, including academic programmes, student services, campus resources, parking facilities, cafeteria food and online courses, among many others.