Qatar University (QU) and six community centres under the supervision of Qatar Foundation for Social Work (QFSW) have signed six contracts to conduct research projects.
They were signed by QU vice president for research and graduate studies Prof Mariam al-Maadeed, on behalf of the Centre for Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) at Qatar University College of Arts and Sciences (QU-CAS).
The other signatories were QFSW executive director and Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disabilities CEO Amal bint Abdul-Latif al-Mannai, Ehsan Centre for Empowerment and Elderly Care director Mubarak bin Abdul Aziz al-Khalifa, NAMA Centre for Social Development acting director Mariam bint Abdul Latif al-Mannai, Aman Centre for Protection and Social Rehabilitation acting director Mansoor al-Saadi, Dreama Orphans Care Centre director Mariam bint Ali al-Misnad, and Wifaq Family Consulting Centre director Rashid bin Ahmed al-Doosari.
Attending the event were QU president Dr Hassan al-Derham, QU chief strategy and development officer Dr Darwish al-Emadi, CHSS director Dr Kaltham Ali al-Ghanim, and CAS associate dean for research and graduate studies Prof Hala Sultan Saif al-Easa, as well as other QU officials and representatives of the partnering establishments.
The contracts aim to strengthen co-operation in the field of social and human research between QU, QFSW, and civil society and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
The terms of the contracts include collaboration between CHSS and QFSW centres (Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disabilities, Ehsan Centre for Empowerment and Elderly Care, NAMA Centre for Social Development, Aman Centre for Protection and Social Rehabilitation, Dreama Orphans Care Centre, and Wifaq Family Consulting Centre). This collaboration is based on preparing and conducting research and field work by QU research groups for the benefit of these centres and for the purpose of developing their services. In her remarks, Prof Mariam al-Maadeed said: “We seek to support research and develop the community’s capabilities by supporting civil society organisations, initiatives and efforts that serve all members of the society, in line with QU’s vision and Qatar National Vision 2030.”
Dr Kaltham Ali al-Ghanim said: “CHSS will contribute to Qatar University’s vision of conducting high quality research that addresses contemporary challenges and advances knowledge.
This involves creating awareness of research opportunities; guiding faculty and students through the application process for research grants; and utilising research to meet national and community needs, to provide appropriate solutions for social problems, and to support social development.”
Amal bint Abdul-Latif al-Mannai said: “This partnership comes within the framework of implementing our vision in applying the best practices to integrate it with experience on the ground in addition to applying the international experiences in these areas and to adapting them to suit the Qatari community.”
She also noted that the pact is a reflection of the pioneering role played by QFSW and the entities working under its umbrella in enhancing the capabilities and developing the mechanisms of social work in Qatar, and in implementing the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the sustainable development goals.
Amal bint Abdul-Latif al-Mannai shakes hands with Prof Mariam al-Maadeed after signing the contract.
