TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK

DOHA WITH a spring in their step and a broad smile on their faces, hundreds of graduates proudly donned their traditional caps and robes as they walked side by side during Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) Convocation 2012 on Tuesday.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony QF Chairperson Her Highness Sheikha Moza said, “I see in you the blossoming of new futures, which I have worked so long to establish through the providing of quality education. And as we have helped create new futures for you, it is now your responsibility to create new futures for the coming generations who follow in your pioneering footsteps.” The graduates were delighted to receive their graduation rings. Six exceptional students were granted the ‘President’s Award’ created to recognise academic excellence and a deep commitment to making a difference both on campus and within the wider community.

Those chosen this year are Mohamed al Kazaz from WCMCQ, Zainab Sultan from NUQ, Qazi Rashid from SFS Qatar, Sara Abdulla al Saadi from NUQ, Al Johara Hassan al Thani from SFS Qatar and Mariam Abdulrazak al Meer from TAMUQ.

Mariam, a Qatari national, is determined to make a positive contribution to the nation. She has always excelled as a student, and is now keen on transferring her skills to the workforce. Mariam has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering, with a minor in chemistry and mathematics, and expressed sincere gratitude for the opportunities afforded her through studying at QF. “During my time here, I have gained some of the most important experiences that have made me a person ready to take up challenges in the real world,” she said.

The model student would like to see an increase in the number of females pursuing careers related to science, engineering, mathematics and technology. “I believe that females, equal to their male counterparts in skill and potential, can add important perspectives to discussions related to unsolved problems in these fields. I would like to be part of the process by starting service-learning projects which can attract young girls to scientific careers”, she said.

Mohamed al Kazaz, 23, has been involved in many charitable projects during his time at university, which has enriched his time at QF. “I will never forget the amazing experiences that I had,” said the Iraqi, who now holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and will be pursuing an internal medicine residency at New York- Presbyterian Hospital in the US.

Another talented recipient of the award was Zainab Sultan. The 25-year-old journalism student at NU-Q has also taken advantage of every opportunity that has come her way. Zainab, who was born in India but grew up in Jeddah, is enthusiastic about the next stage of her personal development and eager to start work. “I am really excited to go out and get a job and start doing everything that I learned at school.”