Doha: UK-Qatar cooperation has been strengthened with the signing of a new memorandum of understanding to collaborate on environmental research, development and exchange of academic staff and students.
The five-year agreement was signed by Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science, UK (Cefas), and Qatar University (QU). It aims to strengthen research and education at both institutions, enhancing collaboration and mutual understanding between academics and students.
Areas of cooperation are expected to include environmental education programmes; joint research activities and publications; exchange of staff, scholars, students, academic information and materials; and participation in seminars, conferences and academic meetings.
Agreements detailing specific institutional activities, for example, with University’s Environmental Studies Centre (ESC), are expected to follow.
Mike Waldock, CEO, Cefas, said: “The new partnership heralds an important new era for UK-Qatar collaboration in the fields of environmental studies, marine science and research.
“We look forward to working in cooperation with our Qatari partners to deliver mutual benefits for both organisations, our countries and shared global environment.”
Prof. Sheika Abdulla Al Misnad, President, QU, said: “Following the successful seminar in April hosted by ESC at QU for Cefas of the UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, I am pleased to announce that an MoU has been signed between ESC and Cefas to begin a scientific partnership and collaboration.
“Cefas is the leading government scientific body on marine science in the UK, renowned internationally for its evidence-based scientific guidance on the marine environment.
“It has active projects in the Gulf, and its partnership with ESC will benefit Qatar and the GCC region.
“ESC’s collaboration with Cefas will provide access to Cefas laboratories and expertise for QU staff and students and stimulate greater scientific exchange and endeavour between Qatar and the UK.
“It is a major opportunity that will lead to excellent research opportunities within a strong, scientific framework,” she added.
The Peninsula
