UDST Celebrates Class of 2026 Graduates Ready to Drive Qatar's Development

The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) continued its graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2026 on May 20, 2026, marking an ongoing celebration of its students' achievements and their readiness to contribute to Qatar's future. The ceremonies noted the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and innovative learning by the graduating class. Dr. Rachid Benlamri, Vice President and Academic at UDST, addressed the gathering during the event, emphasizing the significance of this milestone for the students and the nation. The university stated that these initiatives demonstrate the "creativity, innovation, and practical problem-solving skills fostered among UDST students across a wide range of disciplines," reflecting the institution's commitment to excellence in education.

Student Achievements and Projects

The ceremony provided a platform for graduates to share their inspiring journeys and showcase their impactful projects. Sheikh Mohamed Al-Thani, a distinguished graduate from the Human Resources programme, shared his personal journey and achievements during the ceremony. Al-Thani reflected on his academic path, stating, "I’m very happy and proud of everything I achieved during my studies. My family supported and encouraged me through every challenge, especially during difficult times, and that motivated me to keep going and succeed." His account showed the vital role of strong support systems in enabling student success and perseverance through academic rigor. His story resonated with many in attendance, noting the personal triumphs embedded within the academic journey.

Angenica Thea Tizon, an Information Technology graduate, was also celebrated during the event. Her team received an industry poster award for their project, an accomplishment that drew significant recognition. Tizon expressed her feelings about graduating and moving forward into her professional life, noting, "I’m nervous and excited at the same time because this is a completely new chapter for me. After four years of hard work, I just feel happy and ecstatic." Her anticipation reflects the sentiments of many graduates embarking on their professional careers, eager to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills. She also mentioned developing a proof of concept for connected smart campuses, a project that demonstrated advanced technological application and forward-thinking design.

Student-led initiatives, such as the innovative ‘Be My Sense’ project, were also prominently showcased, demonstrating the practical application of skills learned at UDST. These projects provide tangible evidence of the university's hands-on approach to education. The university noted these projects as prime examples of the creativity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities fostered among its students across various disciplines, preparing them for real-world challenges. These initiatives align directly with UDST's overarching commitment to producing highly capable graduates who are ready to make immediate and meaningful contributions to Qatar's ongoing development and diversification efforts. The focus on practical, industry-relevant projects ensures that graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the modern workforce.

Keynote Addresses and University Vision

The graduation ceremony was held under the esteemed patronage of the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, signifying the national importance of UDST's role in education and workforce development. Hamad Mubarak Alhajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu, served as the distinguished guest speaker for the event, addressing the graduating class and all attendees with words of encouragement and inspiration. His presence noted the strong ties between UDST and industry leaders, ensuring that the education provided meets market needs.

Alhajri offered his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and eloquently noted their immense future potential. He stated, "Congratulations on this graduation. Congratulations to the nation for having you. And congratulations to the world for these souls who are now ready to leave a mark that will never be forgotten." His powerful remarks emphasized the profound impact the Class of 2026 is expected to have, not only on Qatar's economic and social landscape but also on a global scale, as they embark on their diverse professional journeys. His speech showed the university's vision to cultivate leaders and innovators who will drive progress.

Graduate Perspectives and Future Contributions

Angenica Thea Tizon, an Information Technology graduate, further discussed her team's impactful work, stating, "One of the projects we developed was a proof of concept for connected smart campuses, and it received strong recognition from the university leadership." This recognition further validates the quality and relevance of the student-led research and development at UDST. Tizon also shared her feelings about her new chapter, remarking, "I’m nervous and excited at the same time because this is a completely new chapter for me. After four years of hard work, I just feel happy and ecstatic." Her sentiments capture the mixed emotions of anticipation and accomplishment common among new graduates. Dana Khattab, a student from Jordan who proudly completed her Healthcare Management degree, expressed her profound gratitude, stating, "I’m very happy to celebrate this achievement with the people who supported me throughout my journey." Her words echoed the appreciation felt by many graduates for their families, faculty, and peers. Walaa Hassan, who earned the distinction of being the Class of 2026 Salutatorian, affirmed the collective spirit of the graduating class, stating, "Each one of us carries a unique story of success, yet what unites us all is the belief that ambition and hard work can shape a brighter future." Her inspiring message encapsulated the shared optimism and determination of the graduates as they look forward to contributing to Qatar's growth and beyond.