Qatar University and Thales signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for academic development, research and training of future Qatari professionals on new and emerging technological solutions in the field of information systems for a range of specialties.

The agreement was signed between Qatar University President Prof Sheikha Abdulla Al-Misnad and Thales Communications & Security Chairman and CEO Mr. Jean-Michel Lagarde, in the presence of the Ambassador of France to Qatar, M. Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, QU VP and Chief Academic Officer for Academic Affairs Dr. Mazen Hasna, several officials from the French Embassy, Thales, ictQATAR and QU, along with representatives from leading information and communication organizations in Qatar.

The agreement will benefit students of the departments of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science and Engineering in the College of Engineering. Its objective is to harness Qatar’s central role as the lead producer of Qatar’s engineering graduates and partner with Thales’s experience, technological know-how, product expertise and active research activity in a wide range of functional domains related to information systems. Underlying this objective is the shared commitment to contribute to Qatar’s development and progress.

Professor Al-Misnad said: “We are pleased to partner with Thales who is a leader in the field of information systems and related products and services. The research component of this agreement is in line with our continued push to advance our research capacity and to provide our students with an environment of vibrant research activity. Information systems is a fast-growing field around the world and we are pleased to be part of the development of these competencies among our students to prepare them to take the reins as future leaders in Qatar”.

“We are honored to start the cooperation with Qatar University in the field of information systems security. It will enhance IT awareness across Qatar and improve Qatari workforce skills in that field and will aid Qatar University in becoming an active member of recognized university organizations and forums”, said Lagarde.

Qatar University is the premier national university of Qatar. Established in 1973, it serves over 15,000 students and offers more than 60 specializations. The University is committed to providing high-quality education to Qatari and international students in areas of national priority. Its academic programs are aligned with established international standards and best practices. This was achieved through accreditation of many of its colleges, programs and courses by leading international accrediting bodies such as ABET and AACSB.

Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace & Transportation and the Defense & Security markets.  In IT security, the Group is one of the world leaders in cryptographic security solutions for critical government and military infrastructure, satellite constellations, enterprise customers and financial institutions.