QU to organize Innovation & Entrepreneurship Contest 2017

Qatar University (QU) colleges of Business and Economics (CBE) and Engineering (CENG) launched the “Innovation & Entrepreneurship Contest 2017” at a press conference held on November 12 at QU.

Details of the contest were outlined by CBE Dean Dr Khalid Shams M A Al-Abdulqader and CENG Dean Dr Khalifa Al-Khalifa in the presence of Qatar National Bank (QNB) representative Mr Fahad Al Emadi and CENG associate deans of Research and Postgraduate Studies Prof Abdelmagid Hammuda and of Development and Industrial Relations Dr Saud Ghani, and CBE Center for Entrepreneurship Director Dr Mahmoud Khalil, as well as QU faculty and staff, and representatives of the local media.

The contest is organized under the sponsorship of QNB. This year, it focuses on creating business ideas and innovations for the benefit of the Qatari economy and the national aspirations towards a knowledge-based economy. The participating teams will have access to training materials through online webinars. Presentations will be delivered in front of a panel of judges. Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the end of December. In addition to monetary prizes provided by QNB, winners will get the chance to have their ideas developed further at CBE Center for Entrepreneurship’s Incubator through vigorous coaching and training. First-place winners will be offered a one-month internship program by QNB in the department related to their educational background.

Dr Khalid Shams M A Al-Abdulqader stressed the importance of innovative ideas to develop a sound business sector and to ultimately contribute to the country’s development and progress. He said: “Through this annual competition, we are inviting our students to invest their talents in the spirit of competition, shared knowledge and teamwork. The business ideas should be feasible, realistic and preferably serve to meet the needs of the labor market and the private sector in Qatar. We look forward to seeing the innovative projects that will emerge.”

Dr Khalifa Al-Khalifa said: “The contest is designed to spread awareness about the importance of entrepreneurial activities, trigger the entrepreneurial skills of QU students and engage them on how to develop sound business plans. When they graduate, our students will enter a highly competitive business environment in Qatar. They have to acquire the skills and competencies to become the next leaders in the world of business. In this regard, CENG is committed to providing its students with the opportunity to develop their creative and innovative business ideas which will add value to their education.” 

Mr Fahad Yousuf Al-Emadi said: “QNB is proud to partake in sponsoring the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Contest 2017 organized by Qatar University College of Business and Economics (CBE) and College of Engineering (CENG). QNB extends its efforts to sponsor this competition by supporting students’ development and growth, and encourage innovation in entrepreneurship, by aiding in providing a platform for students’ startup businesses. The group continues to support projects and businesses that boost local economy and serve social responsibility simultaneously.”