In a significant step towards strengthening Qatar’s healthcare research and innovation ecosystem, Itqan Clinical Simulation and Innovation Center (Itqan), a part of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), and the Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the recent Web Summit Qatar.
The agreement was signed by Omar al-Ansari, secretary general of QRDI Council and Ali al-Janahi, acting assistant managing director of HMC. The collaboration will facilitate the development of healthcare RDI policies, joint research initiatives, and innovation calls addressing national healthcare challenges.
It also aims to position Itqan Clinical Simulation and Innovation Centre as a hub for testing new healthcare technologies and fostering collaboration between local and international innovators in the field.
Al-Ansari, stressed, “QRDI Council is dedicated to positioning Qatar as a leading hub for research, development, and innovation. This collaboration will enhance the RDI and healthcare systems, nurturing new innovations that will tackle pressing healthcare challenges and pave the way for groundbreaking advancements.”
Al-Janahi emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating, “This MoU represents a transformative step towards integrating cutting-edge research and innovation into Qatar’s healthcare system. By joining forces with QRDI Council, HMC is fostering an environment that accelerates the adoption of advanced healthcare technologies, ultimately enhancing patient care and clinical education.”
The MoU emphasises capacity-building efforts to support healthcare professionals and researchers. Itqan and QRDI Council will collaborate on specialised training programmes, workshops and knowledge-exchange initiatives that enhance research methodologies, innovation management, and the application of cutting-edge technologies in the medical field. By investing in the development of healthcare talent, this partnership aims to strengthen Qatar’s position as a regional leader in healthcare simulation and medical research.
Dr Abdulla Ahmad Yousuf, executive director of Itqan noted, “At Itqan, we are dedicated to advancing excellence in healthcare simulation and education. Our collaboration with the QRDI Council represents a strategic step towards developing innovative, research-driven solutions that elevate medical training, enhance patient safety, and drive impactful advancements in healthcare.”
The MoU outlines several key areas of co-operation, including the launch of research and innovation initiatives, the development of RDI policies, and the establishment of sectoral committees to enhance performance and excellence in Qatar’s healthcare industry.
QRDI and HMC officials at the MoU signing ceremony.
