City University Qatar (CUQ), in partnership with Ulster University, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Social Development Center NAMA—an institution affiliated with the Qatar Foundation for Social Work. The signing took place on 6th May 2025 in Doha and reflects a shared commitment to advancing youth development in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.

A Strategic Partnership for National Impact

The MoU establishes a collaborative framework between academia and the community, designed to empower youth through education, innovation, and skills-building. Key areas of cooperation include the development of specialised training programmes, joint workshops, and awareness campaigns that foster community engagement and support national development goals.

The agreement also includes provisions for:

• Annual scholarships for academic programmes
• Internship opportunities for young Qataris, children of Qatari mothers, GCC nationals, and individuals born in Qatar
• Exchange of academic and professional expertise
• Co-hosted events and initiatives to address social development priorities

Supporting Qatar’s Future Leaders

Mr Ghanem Salah Al Ali, Executive Director of the Social Development Center NAMA, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating:

“At NAMA, we believe in the importance of strategic partnerships that contribute to youth empowerment and future readiness. This agreement with City University Qatar reinforces our commitment to providing a stimulating educational and training environment that meets the aspirations of our youth and supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. We hope this collaboration will lead to meaningful initiatives that address community needs and enhance the role of youth in national development.”

Professor Faris G. Faris, PhD, President of City University Qatar, also shared his pride in the partnership:

“We are proud to partner with NAMA, as this agreement reflects a genuine model of aligning academic education with community needs. We strongly believe in empowering youth by offering a learning environment that nurtures their potential and supports their ambitions. We are committed to working together to implement initiatives that will benefit both the nation and society.”

A Lasting Agreement

The MoU was officially signed by Mr Nasser Al Naimi, Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees & Deputy CEO of Artan Holding, and Mr Ghanem Salah Al Ali, Executive Director of the Social Development Center NAMA.

A joint committee will be formed to oversee the implementation of the agreement and ensure that its objectives are met. The MoU is valid for three years and will be automatically renewed, further reinforcing both institutions’ long-term commitment to youth and community development in Qatar.