HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Attends Final Convocation Ceremony at UCQ
HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Attends University of Calgary in Qatar’s Final Convocation Ceremony
Doha, May 11 (NQA) – Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended the final convocation ceremony of the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) on Sunday, commemorating the university’s significant contributions to the advancement of Qatar’s healthcare system.
Held at the Qatar National Convention Center, the ceremony welcomed several high-profile attendees, including Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, as well as senior officials from national institutions such as the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and Qatar Foundation. Ambassadors, faculty members, graduates, and their families were also present to mark this historic occasion.
A total of 120 students graduated, joining an alumni network of over 1,100 UCQ graduates who have played a vital role in shaping the nursing profession in Qatar. Since its inception in 2006, UCQ has been a pioneer in delivering globally informed, locally relevant nursing education. Its academic offerings—including the Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, and Nursing Foundations programs—have fostered a diverse and skilled nursing workforce, with over 120 Qatari nationals among its graduates, many of whom now serve in leadership, education, and clinical roles.
In Sheikha Moza’s opening address, UCQ President and CEO Professor Hala Sultan Saif Al Easa celebrated the dedication of the graduates:
“Here stands a new graduating class, gazing confidently toward the future. This moment is the result of years of perseverance, sleepless nights, and unwavering dedication. Today, 120 graduates join the ranks of over a thousand peers who have helped strengthen Qatar’s healthcare system.”
Professor Al Easa also highlighted UCQ’s trailblazing role in nursing education:
“We take pride in being the first to offer a Qatar-accredited Bachelor of Nursing degree. Our comprehensive continuing professional development programs and specialized master’s degrees in clinical nursing, leadership, and oncology have been instrumental in nurturing highly capable nursing professionals. Sheikha Moza”
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Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chair of the UCQ Board of Trustees, reflected on the university’s enduring impact:
“Today is both a celebration and a farewell. We are proud of every graduate and the contributions they have made—and will continue to make—to healthcare in Qatar. UCQ’s role has extended far beyond education, contributing directly to Qatar’s economic resilience and national development in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030.”
For nearly two decades, UCQ has upheld a legacy defined by academic excellence, community engagement, research, and institutional collaboration. Through partnerships with leading healthcare providers—including Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and the Primary Health Care Corporation—students gained practical experience aligned with Qatar’s evolving healthcare needs.
As part of its collaborative ethos, UCQ played an active role in the Interprofessional Education Committee (IPEC) and became the first institution in the Middle East designated as a Best Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO)—an internationally respected program committed to evidence-based nursing practices and improved patient outcomes.
Interim Dean Dr. Janet Rankin, who joined UCQ from the University of Calgary’s main campus in Canada, expressed her pride in the university’s final chapter:
“While this marks UCQ’s last graduation, our legacy endures. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the compassion and professionalism that define our graduates—hallmarks of our university’s mission. Our story continues in the lives and work of our alumni, and I extend heartfelt thanks to the State of Qatar for its unwavering support.”
Director of Student and Enrollment Services Hassan Kandar paid tribute to the students’ perseverance:
“Each graduate’s journey has been one of growth and resilience. From orientation to convocation, we’ve witnessed their transformation into confident nursing professionals committed to serving their communities.”
In a poignant moment, Noof Fahad Al Kuwari, this year’s Distinguished Alumna, addressed the graduating class and led them in reciting the Graduates’ Pledge, symbolizing their commitment to professional excellence and service for Sheikha Moza.
As the University of Calgary in Qatar prepares to close its doors, its legacy will live on through its alumni and their continued contributions to Qatar’s healthcare system. UCQ extends its deepest gratitude to the State of Qatar, the University of Calgary in Canada, and all the students, faculty, staff, and partners who shaped its remarkable journey.
