Qatar University (QU) and Gulf Organisation for Industrial Consulting (Goic) have signed an agreement to establish “strategic collaboration” in diverse fields such as informatics and media, technical consulting, research, and training.
The agreement was signed by QU president Dr Hassan al-Derham and Goic secretary-general Abdulaziz bin Hamad al-Ageel in the presence of QU vice-president for Academic Affairs Dr Mazen Hasna, QU VP for Research and Graduate Studies Dr Mariam al-Maadeed, and QU VP for Student Affairs Dr Khalid al-Khanji, Goic assistant secretary general for Industrial Projects Sector Dr Ali bin Hamed al-Mulla, and Goic assistant secretary general for Industrial Information & Studies Sector Shamlan HO al-Jeheidli.
In the terms of the agreement, both institutions will provide technical, administrative, and financial consulting and assessment for the implementation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and share technical information, sessions and statistic data in the field of economy and industry.
The agreement also covers collaborative studies in the field of petrochemical, metal, pharmaceutical and food industries, technical diagnostic studies to define the various opportunities and challenges that SMEs face, and research and field surveys on industrial strategies and policies with the aim to develop the industrial sector in the GCC.
Both institutions will also cooperate in providing joint conferences, seminars, and workshops, as well as internships and training for QU students.
Al-Derham said: “The establishment of partnerships with local, regional, and international institutions is a key priority at QU. Last year, the university signed around 46 MoUs because we believe that the exchange of knowledge and experiences is an essential component to promote research and to fulfil the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the national aspirations towards a knowledge-based economy.
“Our collaboration with Goic will contribute to enhancing the local industry and to providing valuable data, research outcomes, and consulting services that will serve the public and private sectors in Qatar.”
Al-Ageel said: “GCC governments are making substantial progress in diversifying the industrial sector away from energy-based and petrochemical industries. He also noted that the innovative R&D capabilities and the highly-skilled workforce in the Gulf countries are “vital factors” to enhancing the GCC industries.”
He added: “Goic is committed to strengthening links between GCC industries and R&D centres and universities. The organisation is currently establishing a database of GCC R&D capabilities in line with the needs of industry. In this regard, we are looking forward to strengthening our collaboration with Qatar University and other GCC R&D centres and universities.”