Welcome to the Gulf Studies Center at Qatar University's College of Arts
and Sciences. Since its inception in 2013, our center has been a beacon of
knowledge and inquiry into the complex and dynamic realm of the Gulf
region, encompassing critical areas of political, economic, social, and
cultural dynamics through an interdisciplinary approach. Our commitment to
deepening the understanding of the Gulf is rooted in a tradition of
excellence, established with the launch of our unique Gulf Studies MA
program in 2011, followed by the introduction of the PhD program. These
programs are designed to foster intimate learning environments, promoting
enhanced interaction and engagement between students and instructors. Our
graduates are not just witnesses to history; they are active participants
in shaping our understanding of the Gulf's identity through rigorous
research and interdisciplinary analysis. As we look to the future, our
vision for the Gulf Studies Center is anchored in three pivotal
commitments:
1. Strategic Clarity: We will develop and articulate a clear,
comprehensive strategy that aligns with our academic ambitions and
research goals. This strategy will serve as our roadmap, guiding our
initiatives and ensuring that every effort contributes towards our shared
vision.
2. Resource Mobilization: Recognizing that our ambitions are only
as achievable as the resources we dedicate to them, my administration will
focus on mobilizing both our internal assets and external partnerships. We
will seek to enhance our collaborations with global academic institutions,
policymakers, and industry leaders to enrich our programs and expand our
impact.
3. Commitment to Excellence: Our goals are ambitious and reflect
our commitment to productivity, quality, and transparency. We aim to not
only continue but also enhance our tradition of producing
thought-provoking research and providing a transformative educational
experience. We will hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards of
academic integrity and operational transparency. In fostering these
commitments, we will ensure that the Gulf Studies Center not only persists
as a premier institution for Gulf research but also thrives as a vibrant
community of scholars and practitioners who contribute meaningfully to the
global understanding of the region.
I invite each of you, whether you are
a student, a researcher, an administrator, or an enthusiast of Gulf
studies, to join us in this exciting journey. Together, we will explore
the challenges and opportunities of the Gulf region, and strive to make a
significant impact through our scholarly pursuits. Let us move forward
together, with purpose and passion, to achieve the extraordinary.
Dr. Maryam Alkuwari
Director of Gulf Studies Center