Stenden University Qatar celebrated the graduation of Class 2016 at a ceremony in Doha on Wednesday.
The ceremony was held under the patronage of HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani and attended by Leendert Klaassen, president of the executive board, Stenden University; Wayne Johnson, head of international sites, Stenden University; Dr Ivan Ninov, executive dean, Stenden University Qatar; and distinguished guests from many private and public organisations in Qatar.
“Our honouring today of our sons actually reflects the care of their university, which expended all efforts possible to put them on the right track of education and creation, so they build the base of their bright tomorrow,” HE Sheikh Faisal said while addressing the audience. 
He congratulated the families of the graduates and added, “Congratulations on the graduation of your sons and daughters, and may God protect this dear country under the leadership of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.”
In his speech to the graduates, Klaassen said: “From now onwards, you are off to ‘fly out’ into a fascinating industry in hospitality, tourism and business. Stenden has more than 12,000 alumni in that area alone – an alumni network, or community that is spread throughout the world and to which you now also belong. 
“It is a challenging industry that can offer you a successful international career. I look forward to seeing you in senior successful positions or as successful entrepreneurs in years to come. I equally look forward to seeing some of you study further.” 
Johnson told the graduates that “the world is your oyster, filled with opportunities, but don’t always look for the pearl and want the best. Don’t be afraid of hard work and effort.”
“Today you stand before us as fresh graduates, 10 years from now we may be standing before as you take your roles as leaders in the society, economy or government. Don’t stop learning because the lessons will never stop. We have prepared you by giving you all the tests and you have passed them, the reason you are here, but the real tests will start soon and by handing you this degree we declare that you are ready, but is the world ready for you,” he noted.
Two graduates delivered valedictorian speeches at the of Class 2016 graduation ceremony, representing their fellow graduates. Hamda al-Naimi and Rania Aissaoui gave inspiring speeches and shared their experiences at Stenden University Qatar. 
Dr Ninov gave the closing speech in which he congratulated everyone who contributed to this important achievement. “We as a university strongly believe that the most important measure of our success will be your success as graduates. Stenden will always remain an important part of you and you will always remain an important part of Stenden. 
“You are now officially members of Stenden University Qatar Alumni Association and we look forward to your continuous support and engagement into further establishing Stenden University Qatar into one of the premier business schools in the region and internationally.”