QU Hosts 18th Annual MENASA NASPA Conference

This year's conference is held under the theme "Student Affairs: Changes and Challenges in the Era of Emerging Technologies."

Qatar University (QU) hosts the 18th Annual MENASA NASPA Conference, in partnership with NASPA (Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education) under the theme "Student Affairs: Changes and Challenges in the Era of Emerging Technologies," with extensive participation of professionals, researchers, and experts from various educational institutions in the MENA region and South Asia.

The conference aims to highlight the diverse influence of various technologies on student affairs, higher education institutions, and most crucially, university student experiences. As technology continues to impact the educational environment, this conference is an opportunity to provide a forum for exploring creative methods, ethical issues, and practical techniques to improve student engagement, holistic development, and learning through innovative use of technologies.

QU President Dr. Omar Al-Ansari said during his speech, "I hope that this conference will be the first step in paving the way for a future where technology serves as a catalyst for change and positive transformation. We must unite to explore, collaborate, and envision the unlimited possibilities that technology holds, as the tremendous advancements in artificial intelligence, metaverse, and cybersecurity are just a few examples that place upon us the responsibility to equip our staff with the skills, knowledge, and behaviors necessary to build their resilience and readiness to continue their mission in educating students and providing the necessary opportunities for their growth and development."

Dr. Omar Al-Ansari added, "Hosting this important conference is an indicator of Qatar University's appreciation for the role of the student affairs sector in the university student's life. We recognize and appreciate the valuable contribution it adds to students' experience and educational journey. We take pride in the university's student-centered education and digitization-enhanced education, and in faculty members utilizing this in their lectures and teaching various courses, enabling them and their students to interact with all new technologies and benefit from them to serve the educational process."

"We have launched several initiatives in this regard, including the establishment of the Digital Learning and Online Education Office, digitization of a number of courses, and prioritization of digitization in our strategic plan. We have provided everything necessary to enrich digital skills, enhance innovation culture, and produce generations capable of dealing with and competing in technology at both local and international levels, in addition to meeting the needs of the job market, where technology has become a fundamental driver and significant influencer in its development."

QU Student Affairs is dedicated to enhancing the student experience by supporting the university's educational mission. With a team of over 400 professionals, the sector provides a range of quality programs and services to more than 24,000 students. These services span across multiple areas of development: emotional, spiritual, career, cognitive, and physical. The sector collaborates with various departments to ensure student success, offering services such as academic advising, career development, and financial aid.