Category: Technology

Qatar University’s (QU) College of Health Sciences Student Association (CHSSA) organized a webinar titled “Don’t say you can’t, you have a hidden power” on May 23. The webinar was presented by Lara Darwish, An International Coach who specializes in advanced leadership skills, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence.

The webinar aimed towards understanding how to discover ourselves in a correct way and understand our behaviors, which affect our self-growth and development. The (CHSSA) Vice President, Asma Hassan welcomed the attendees who joined the workshop from inside and outside Qatar, she expressed her thanks to Lara for accepting the invitation, as she is one of the best coaches in this field.

During the opening speech, Asma Hassan said, “There are many people who lived and died and did not know themselves properly. They had goals and dreams that they sought to achieve, but they could not achieve any of them because they lacked self-discovery in the right way. Therefore, we must all try to get to know ourselves and discover our energy / capabilities first to take a distinct path to success.”

Lara Darwish has a bachelor’s degree in international business and a master’s degree in higher education. On top pf that, she is an inspiring person and always strives to create a positive change in the lives of others? and her mission is to help others discover their inner power and put it to use for the common good.

Lara presented herself and welcomed the attendees, while giving her opening speech she said, “We humans are constantly changing, whether biologically through aging or mentally through our own experiences. Yet positive change doesn't happen by default, we need to put the effort and time to develop ourselves in a way that enables us to pursue our dreams and reach fulfillment.”

The workshops started by illustrating the scientific way of our emotion process and how we trigger them, further they discussed emotional intelligence aspects and why it’s essential in self-growth. Furthermore, inner and exterior motives were discussed and their distinct role in directing our goals and purposes. Self-awareness, self-regulation and motivation were discussed thoroughly. The attendees interacted with Lara through the workshop, and finally there was a space for more discussion and suggestion.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

Qatar University (QU) an MSc graduate of the Qatar University College of Pharmacy (QU-CPH) Eilan Alhersh completed and defended her Master of Pharmacy (MSc) thesis recently, under the title ‘Cost-effectiveness analysis of high versus low dose caffeine for the treatment of apnea in neonatal intensive care unit’.

The research study is the first health economics analysis, nationally and internationally, to evaluate the cost-effectiveness between different dosage regimens of caffeine for the treatment of apnea in premature neonates in Qatar. It was conducted from the perspective of Women Wellness and Research Center, a member of the main healthcare provider in Qatar, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). Apnea, which is the cessation of breathing, is most commonly treated with caffeine. According to the guidelines, the maintenance caffeine dose should be 10 mg/kg, which can be intravenous or oral. However, there has been an increasing number of reports in the literature in favor of the use of higher doses of caffeine, suggesting better clinical outcomes. This, however, can be associated with increased hospitalization and adverse drug events.

Eilan said, “I am happy with the methods I used for the evaluation. This was a simulation-based evaluation, where the use of caffeine and its consequences was studied in a hypothetical cohort of neonates over the stay of the babies in the intensive care unit. Clinical inputs of the simulation were obtained from published studies in the literature, while the cost data inputs were based on HMC".

Eilan added, “The study demonstrated that over the hospital stay duration, high dose caffeine was between dominant and cost-effective in 98.5% of simulated cases. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the study results against model input uncertainties”.

Eilan also added, “The mentorship I received in the area of pharmacoeconomics is particularly satisfying. The project was multi-skills and multidisciplinary based. My understanding of the topic and research methods, my communication and writing skills, and my presentation skills were all improved. I was able to publish articles and present my research at international events as well”.

QU-CPH Associate Professor of Health Economics and Outcomes Research Dr. Daoud Al-Badriyeh said, “Eilan worked very hard and was able to complete the minimum required duration of the program. Eilan loves the area of her research, and her resolution to succeed is impressive and will surely take her places”.

He added: “The research has already been in collaboration with HMC, with conclusions to be shared at the different levels of decision making in there. Much cost-savings can be obtained per patient”.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

Qatar University (QU) Library administration intends to implement a number of projects related to developing its services and transforming them from a mere information container to research and scientific platforms.

The aim of this archive is to document the history of Qatar University and its development from 1978 up to the present day. This initiative undertakes the archiving and preservation of the university historical registers in order to make them accessible for users. These should include university publications, administrative records and articles.

Among the most prominent of these projects is the Qatar University electronic archive project, which seeks to achieve the university's goals in digital transformation, and in a statement in this regard, Asma Al-Buainain, Acting Director of Qatar University Library said, “The idea of the Qatar University electronic archive project came due to the importance of the historical eras that the university has gone through and the large number of documents dealing with these eras, and their lack of availability in one place. The vision of the Qatar University Archive project is to collect, maintain and provide records continuously. Making it available for continuous access and use of these records relating to the history and culture of the university.”

Al-Buainain added: "The Qatar University Library Department documents the history and development of Qatar University from 1978 to this day, and the University Archive works on archiving, preserving and making available to the public the historical records of the University, including publications, administrative records, articles, newsletters, photographs, video and audio recordings, and oral history.”

The Qatar University electronic archive project will be launched soon; this is within the framework of the library’s plan to document the history and development of Qatar University from 1978 to the present day. The project aims to archive and preserve the historical records of the university and make them available to all researchers and university affiliates, in addition to free access to these resources through the Qatar University Digital Hub platform. According to the belief of Qatar University in the pioneering role of research; this platform has been updated to include all digital resources from: articles, university publications and achievements, graduation ceremonies, newsletters, photographs and video recordings.

It is worth noting that the Qatar University Library provides high-quality information services to the university's affiliates, its local and international partners, and to the Qatari community in general. The library includes comprehensive collections of printed and electronic books, and the library subscribes to many scientific databases that serve all disciplines and programs at Qatar University. The library also provides an information literacy program and training in general research skills.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

Qatar University’s (QU) Research and Graduate Studies Sector, in cooperation with a QU-Health Professional, concluded the series of Wednesday’s research activities with a special episode entitled “Doctors of Heaven’s Borders: Scientific Achievements for Graduates of the College of Medicine at Qatar University,” which hosted four students from the first cohort of the College of Medicine, a member QU-Health.

The students participated in this episode: Fatima Al-Mohannadi, Qutaiba Obaid, Muhammad Ahmad Badi' and Mona Saad. The episode was moderated by Suhad Daher-Nashif, Assistant Professor of Population Medicine at College of Medicine. Dr. Nashif gave the episode an introduction about the College of Medicine, which included the year of its establishment and the number of students affiliated with it. Then, an open dialogue took place with the students about their experience in studying medicine at Qatar University, challenges, supporting factors, achievements and advice for future generations.

About their feelings in this transitional stage from being students to doctors and colleagues; Student Fatima Al-Mohannadi noted the feelings of pride and excitement mixed with some feelings of fear and sadness of leaving the college after spending years, and that they are confident that they will be doctors with a great deal of responsibility and humanity.

Regarding the challenges that students faced during their learning, the student Qutaiba Obaid mentioned that, “The challenges started from the first day of their transition from high school to university, and there was a difference in the method of teaching, the quality of books and the method of learning, and that success in overcoming these challenges is contingent on giving up some luxuries, discipline, perseverance and diligence.”

The factors that helped them overcome the difficulties associated with the fact that the college is new and that they are the first batch of graduates; The student, Mona Saad, mentioned that one of the most important factors that helped them is the mutual support between the students, the support of the faculty, lecturers and administration, as well as the support of other students from other faculties.

The student Muhammad mentioned that the relationship of partnership and fellowship in doing research between students and professors in the college; Contributed to preparing students for fellowship and partnership in the hospital environment, which contributed to the development of his research and acceptance in the College of Medicine and to work with his professors on new research projects that add knowledge in their field of specialization.

All of the participants spoke extensively about their previous and current research with their professors and doctors at Hamad Hospital, emphasizing the importance of these studies and their dissemination to medical students, as it facilitates admission to specializations and future postgraduate studies.

How to reconcile study, research and private life; Student Fatima Al-Mohannadi pointed out the importance of the student-researcher to love what he is doing, meaning that the passion for research facilitates dealing with the pressure of study and research together.

Qutaiba talked about the importance of revealing the characteristics of any disease in the community to know the causes and the correct treatment as well. While Mohammed emphasized by mentioning the importance of research commensurate with the needs of society and serving to overcome the factors that contribute to the spread of certain diseases. Mona Saad added that it is important to be able to transfer knowledge from the laboratory to the hospital in order to benefit the patients.

In the end, all the participants discussed their future plans and the reasons and factors that helped them choose their specialties, they gave advice to medical students in general and students of the College of Medicine at Qatar University in particular.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

Qatar University College of Pharmacy (QU-CPH) concluded the Academic Year 2020/2021 with its Annual End of Year Gathering. The event was held successfully through the WebEx platform with more than 150 attendees from the CPH faculty, staff and students from the different professional years. This event is organized on an annual basis to celebrate college achievements, success of the academic year and to congratulate the students for their excellence, in particular the graduating batch of 2021.

The event started with opening remarks by the CPH Assistant Dean for Students Affairs Dr. Alla El-Awaisi followed by welcoming remarks by the CPH Dean Dr. Mohammad Diab and college academic administrators. The program agenda featured participations from each batch where the AY20 was summarized through short student videos. The program also included ‘hats off’ for 2021 graduates, and interactive games. The event was concluded with a group photo and closing remarks.

Commenting on this event, CPH Dean Dr. Mohammad Diab said: “It is our absolute pleasure to conduct our end of year gathering virtually for the second time. Although the past 2 years have been really challenging but despite the challenges, we have done it. I would like to thank all faculty, staff and students for their perseverance, hard work, dedication and commitment during the semester. We always reach high by your allegiance and your readiness. Big thanks also to all those who worked very hard towards a successful event. CPH is very proud of its family and by the position we stand in now as the only and leading pharmacy school in Qatar’.

QU CPH Assistant Dean for Student Affairs Dr. Alla El-Awaisi added, “At this time of the year, some of our students have reached an important milestone in their academic career and that is graduating from the College of Pharmacy in Qatar University (whether it’s from the BSc program, PharmD, MSc, or for the first time PhD) and for the rest, they have completed another phase of their journey. Despite the challenges, while we continue with the pandemic, our CPH students tackled these challenges with patience, persistence, perseverance, and passion. We are very proud of every one of you and sure these experiences will stand you in good stead for the future so warmest congratulations for reaching this far! Many thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our faculty, staff, and administration over the academic year ensuring our students are getting the best learning experience despite the challenges but we’ve made it.”

Qatar Pharmacy Undergraduate Society President and CPH BSc graduate, Ms. Hend Al-Naimi said: "I am very glad that the college was able to conduct the annual end of the year gathering online for the second time. Another challenging academic year has passed and I am very proud of us that we made it to the end. Seeing our batch of 2021 and the other students sharing their experience through this academic year was impressive. I am sure that everyone was able to touch the resilience, high responsibility, and motivation that CPH students hold."

CPH PharmD graduate Sara Aldali added: “In this day, we pharmacy graduates have reached the grand finish line. Each PharmD graduate had her unique story but our unique stories set us apart and make us who we are. This day marks the end of our magnificent pharmacy journey but undeniably, every ending is accompanied by a new beginning. This is indeed such a huge achievement for all of us. It is closing one door and opening an infinite number of doors with endless opportunities, PharmD is just the cherry on top.”

CPH MSc graduate Samaher Al-Shaibi commented: “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to CPH for all the opportunities. I am immensely proud of myself for persisting through all the struggles that have made me a better and more confident researcher today. I am extremely excited to start the next chapter in my life.”

CPH BSc graduate Shahd Ali added: “Graduating from CPH-QU is quite an accomplishment and we are proud of that achievement. We are feeling so grateful to our families, friends and faculty for their support these past 4 years. There’s not a doubt in my mind that there will be anything but greatness from my fellow graduates. We believe that graduation is the start of our future, with our degree we have been entrusted with great power, and with great power comes great responsibility.”

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

Qatar University (QU) has ranked 224 globally according to the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Ranking 2022.

The university continued its progress at a steady pace; to be on the verge of entering the list of the top 200 universities in the world. According to the QS World University Ranking 2022; QU ranked 224, jumping from 245 in the 2021 ranking, achieving an increase of 21 places over last year's version of the same classification.

The QS World University Rankings is compiled using six simple metrics. These six metrics include; Academic Reputation, Employer Reputation, Faculty/Student Ratio, Citations per faculty, International Faculty Ratio and International Student Ratio.

This year’s results show a noticeable increase in the following indicators: academic reputation, employer reputation, citations per faculty, , confirming Qatar University’s international standing, the diversity of the campus environment, and the global impact of the university’s research .

Commenting on this accomplishment, QU President, Dr. Hassan Al Derham, said: “This is a proud moment for Qatar University as it has ranked among the 224 best universities in the world. This leap comes as a result of the commitment of the University towards the goals of the five-year strategy 2018-2022.”

Al Derham added: “Participation in the university world rankings creates an atmosphere of positive competition, as it raises the international standards of the participants and provides a comptetive edge to their graduates on the labor market . For us, the global ranking is a result, not an end, and our goal remains to build national capacity necessary to the establishment of a knowledge-based economy.”

Moreover, this upward trend in the university’s ranking has been steady since 2015, ; resulting in a rise in the university's ranking from 551-600 in 2015 to 224 now, placing the university on the verge of ranking among the top 200 universities worldwide in the coming years.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

The Admissions Department at Qatar University (QU) announced the continuation of receiving electronic admission applications for new and transferred students from other universities and second bachelor’s degree students in the bachelor’s stage for the fall 2021 semester, until the end June 8, 2021 through its official website www.qu.edu.qa/apply Admission decisions will be announced on July 27, 2021.

Ms. Lolwa Al-Rabeei, Director of the Admissions Department at Qatar University, said that the colleges’ seats available for admission according to the given percentages and criteria for the fall 2021 semester are; 70% for the Faculties of Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Management and Economics, Law, Sharia and Islamic Studies, Education, and Health Sciences. The required percentage for medicine and dentistry colleges is 90%, and the required percentage for the college of pharmacy is 80%.

Al Rubaie stressed that admission into Qatar University depends on the principle of competition between applicants. The applicants must achieve minimum requirements. Students are accepted according to the capacity of each college separately. The educational path at the secondary level will also be taken into consideration when applying to university. Al Rubaie added that applying is done by filling out the electronic application on the official university website.

A copy of the applicant’s photo and valid Qatari ID card (and a copy of the passport for non-Qataris) must be uploaded through the electronic application for admission before the specified deadline.

Al Rubaie also said that students from the Qatari government and independent secondary schools starting from 2016 are not required to submit a secondary school certificate transcript, as their results will be received from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education.

Whereas, private schools and international schools, in addition to the Qatari government and independent secondary school students for the year 2015 and before, will be required to bring the original high school diploma transcript certified and approved by the authorities in addition to copies of them to be matched and come to Qatar University before the application deadline.

As for applicants to apply for admission from students of other universities, they must bring the original university transcript certified and approved by the competent authorities in addition to copies of them to be matched and come to Qatar University before the application deadline.

An electronic link will be sent to download a copy of the Community College transcript in Qatar for all students applying for admission from the Community College to Qatar University. Al Rubaie also clarified that students applying for admission to Qatar University must submit the required certificates from Sunday to Thursday at 10am to 1pm, in the Student Activities Building for Boys (B02) on the first floor, and for female students in the Admission and Registration Building (C12) on the ground floor.

Where applicants must make an appointment in advance to submit the required documents through the electronic appointment system via the following link https://myadvisor.qu.edu.qa/ramonline/ BookAppt?C=C&T=P&D=53

Note that no student will be received without taking a prior appointment, as a commitment from the university to apply the precautionary measures in place in the country to limit the spread of Covid-19.

Students can track the admission application status by visiting the online admission application page, using the student’s user name (ID) and password (PIN). And in case of inquiries, students can contact the Admissions Department by e-mail adm.inquiry@qu.edu.qa or by phone 44034444.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY

Qatar University (QU) Qatar Pharmacy Undergraduate Society (QPhUS) and the standing committee on public health in Qatar Medical Students’ Association (SCOPH-Qatar) collaborated to shed the light on tuberculosis disease enlightening the tuberculosis day.

The campaign had two parts, the first included posting infographics on social media to educate the public about tuberculosis signs and symptoms and how to avoid it. The second part targeted the medical and pharmacy students from Qatar and the Eastern Mediterranean Region to compete together in solving some tuberculosis cases under the title of “The Clock is Ticking- STOP TB! A case challenge”.

For the challenge, pharmacy and medical students were grouped into three groups, each group had three medical students and three pharmacy students from Qatar, Uganda, Algeria, Tunisia, Palestine, Egypt, and Iran. The students were given two weeks to solve the cases that were addressing different scenarios and complexities of tuberculosis disease. After the submission, a team of judges including a clinical pharmacist and some clinicians from practice assessed the cases and provided a score for each team along with feedback for them.

The winning team then was announced through social media and included from Qatar Latifa AlKhayyat and Moumena Haddad from the college of pharmacy in Qatar University and Sara Omar a medical student from Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar (WCM-Q). In addition to Layla Jahlash pharmacy student from Palestine, Shamsuddeen Aliyu medical student from Uganda, and Nazim Boughadi medical student from Algeria.

Commenting on this competition QPhUS President, Hend Al-Naimi and College of Pharmacy student said “Although the competition was online, it was exciting to see all the teamwork spirit and how groups of pharmacy and medical students came together around the region to come up with a holistic care plan.

Fardous Abbasher, College of Medicine student and SCOPH_QMSA National public health officer added SCOPH QMSA-Qatar is more than delighted to have had the chance to partner with QPhUS to shed light on such an important topic. Providing an opportunity for the medical and pharmacy students to integrate and collaborate promotes the interdependency and teamwork of healthcare students and future professionals. It also celebrates one of SCOPH’s main pillars: inter-professionalism. We look forward to more opportunities to share with our student bodies!

Moumena Haddad final year pharmacy students from the winning team commented “I was glad to participate in such competition that discussed the management of the most prevalent communicable disease. Creating health care plans for TB patients with health students from different countries was enjoyable and informative in a way that enriched our knowledge through further search and digging into the topic”.

Source: QATAR UNIVERSITY