The College of Business and Economics (CBE) at Qatar University (QU) hosted the 'Competent Graduate' event to inaugurate the QU Alumni Chapter of Business and Economics. The event, which took a place in Sheraton hotel, was attended by Prof. Rana Sobh, Dean of the CBE; Dr. Ibrahim Mohamed Al-Kaabi, Vice President for Academic Affairs at QU; along with many prominent figures from the CBE alumni.

During the ceremony, students from Al-Wakra Primary School presented a reception segment, followed by a Qatari traditional dance. The ceremony also included a poetry segment by the Poet Hamad Al-Braidi who recited a welcoming poem titled “Poetry House”. Additionally, the QU Theater team performed a play titled 'Competent Graduate.

Mr. Saleh Salam Al-Shawi, an inspirational figure, and Mr. Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, Vice Chairman of the QU Alumni Association and Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development, were honored as competent graduates. Dr. Khaled Al-Khater received special recognition for his efforts in serving the university and effectively supporting the college's alumni.

In her welcoming address, Prof. Rana Sobh, Dean of the CBE, stated, “We are delighted to reunite graduates of the CBE from all generations. Our graduates are a source of pride for us because of their achievements. Today, my joy is multiplied as I see the graduates I had the privilege of teaching.” She proudly announced the launch of the Business and Economics chapter at the QU Alumni Association, extending her heartfelt thanks to the alumni association chairperson and the head of the Business and Economics chapter as they celebrated the graduates and their accomplishments.

Prof. Sobh continued by acknowledging the challenges in the field of business and economics, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration among graduates. She stressed the importance of supporting each other, with distinguished graduates sharing their experiences and knowledge to bridge the gap between theoretical perspectives and practical realities in the business world, guiding and directing current students.

Prof. Rana added, “Through this association, we will strive to undertake numerous initiatives and programs to impart experiences to our students and be a source of inspiration for them.” She highlighted the college's commitment to assisting graduates, saying, “CBE will keep all graduates updated on new developments in the business sector and provide opportunities for development, including master's and doctoral programs, training and development programs, international conferences, and meetings with business leaders. I invite both current and former alumni, as well as students, to benefit from these opportunities, emphasizing cooperation, unity, and mutual support within the college and the Business and Economics chapter.”

On his turn, Mr. Jamal Abdulla Al-Jamal, chairperson of the QU Alumni Association and Deputy CEO of the International Islamic Bank, said, “In this blessed event that marks the inauguration of the Alumni Association of the College of Business and Economics at QU, I proudly declare myself as a distinguished graduate of this university. This association, representing all graduates from previous generations, emanates from the heart of this great institution, reflecting its values and excellence in teaching leadership and entrepreneurship. These values are the result of the dedication of the professors, the encouragement of colleagues, and the support of the family.”

He added, “We have beautiful memories at the CBE, learning that success requires continuous effort and a serious desire to achieve goals. Thanks to the continuous support of our professors, administration, and friends, we succeeded in reaching high positions in our societies. As competent graduates, we are committed to being exemplary in all fields and contributing to the development of our communities, carrying the values and principles learned from our great university.”

Mr. Al-Jamal concluded by saying, “I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event, and I congratulate all the graduates on this great achievement. The association now stands as a bridge for communication among us, and we hope it marks the beginning of new and fruitful relationships.”

On her part, Ms. Sarah Al-Tamimi, Engagement and Communications Specialist and chief of the organizing committee of the 'Competent Graduate' event, expressed gratitude, clarifying, “It is my honor to express my deep gratitude to Prof. Rana Sobh for her high confidence and great support in accomplishing this event. This gathering brings together graduates from 25 years ago, alongside their children who graduated from the same college. This is a wonderful opportunity, and I hope we can repeat it annually.”

Ms. Sarah added, “I also wish to express special thanks to the members who supported and assisted me in organizing this event. They have been an outstanding team, and I look forward to repeating this experience again with this team.”