University of Calgary in Qatar Class of 2024 takes flight: Celebrating a new vanguard of nursing excellence

Under the patronage of Her Excellency Buthaina bint Ali Jabr Al Nuaimi, Minister of Education and Higher Education, the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) celebrated the accomplishments of its graduating class of 2024 at the St. Regis Doha Hotel. The event was attended by several ambassadors, dignitaries, academics, and special guests from various government and private entities in Qatar.

The milestone event saw 60 graduates, including four Qatari students, proudly receiving their degrees. The diverse Class of 2024 includes 58 bachelor’s graduates and two master’s graduates, representing 18 countries from around the world.

Senior leadership from UCQ was present, including UCQ President and CEO, Professor Hala Sultan Saif Al Easa; Dean of UCQ, Dr. Janet Rankin; and Chairman of the UCQ Board of Trustees, His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani. Their presence underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing the health-care system and fostering positive change in the field of nursing.

Professor Hala Sultan Saif Al Easa addressed the graduates, stating, “The university has equipped a group of graduates who have received a thorough and demanding education that fulfills accreditation requirements. Our graduates possess a comprehensive set of skills necessary to begin their careers and progress in the field of nursing. Not only are they experts in their respective disciplines, but they also excel in delivering empathetic care that will have a profound impact on the well-being of patients and their families.”

His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani emphasized the critical role of the graduates in his speech, saying, “It is an honour to stand before you all and celebrate the Class of 2024 together. Our graduates are entering the field at a critical time. Health care is a dynamic industry, constantly experiencing transformation; however, we are confident in our graduates’ abilities to bring innovative solutions to the challenges we face today and in the future.”

As the ceremony neared its conclusion, the Gold Medal Award was presented to Elisea Panganiban Serratore, witnessed by the platform party, esteemed guests, proud families, and friends. The Gold Medal is awarded annually to the graduating student who has shown the highest distinction in scholarship. The ceremony concluded with a memorable group photograph, capturing the pride and joy shared by the graduates, their families, and the faculty.

UCQ’s educational programs, accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN), combine rigorous academic training with advanced practical clinical experience. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the health-care needs of Qatar and beyond. The university maintains core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, and equity, fostering an inclusive, understanding, and welcoming environment.

Guided by the Qatar National Vision 2030, UCQ aims to develop world-class nurses who will contribute to the development of a sustainable workforce and serve the economic, social, and health priorities of the State of Qatar.