In an important step toward advancing Qatar’s workforce development and deepening Australia–Qatar ties, Barzan University College (BUC) and Swinburne University of Technology of Australia in partnership with the Australian Embassy in Qatar and the Australia–Qatar Business Association, hosted the inaugural Industry Breakfast Briefing in Doha.
HE Shane Flanagan, Australian Ambassador to Qatar, highlighted the significance of this partnership as the first time Australian universities will offer degrees in Qatar. He described this milestone as a testament to Australia’s confidence in Qatar’s future and its commitment to supporting the country’s transition to a knowledge-based economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Ambassador Flanagan praised BUC and Swinburne for their leadership in this initiative, which will deliver industry-relevant programs in fields such as cybersecurity, biomedicine, and fintech. These programs are designed to close the gap between education and workforce needs, ensuring graduates are well prepared to contribute meaningfully to Qatar’s development.
The Ambassador also expressed solidarity with Qatar following the June 23 attack on Al Udeid Air Base, condemning the incident while commending the effective response of the Qatari Armed Forces. He further praised Qatar’s rapid mediation efforts in achieving a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, emphasizing Australia’s unwavering support for regional de-escalation and dialogue.
Dr. Hassan Al-Derham, Vice-Chairman of BUC, underscored that this partnership was the result of a deliberate and thorough planning process aimed at delivering significant and lasting benefits to Qatar’s economy, society, and student community. He emphasized that the choice of the Australian educational model was strategic, given its proven strength in industry-integrated learning, its focus on developing graduates with high employability, and its commitment to real-world, practical relevance.
Dr. Al-Derham said that the Australian model aligns closely with Qatar’s national priorities for workforce development and knowledge-based economic growth. By embedding internships, live industry projects, and experiential learning opportunities throughout the curriculum, Swinburne’s approach ensures that students gain direct exposure to professional environments and acquire the practical skills required to succeed in an evolving global economy.
Talking to Qatar Tribune on the sidelines of the event, Dr Hassan Al-Derham said that these programmes are designed not only to make graduates immediately job-ready but also to nurture their capacity as lifelong learners and potential job creators, equipping them with the adaptability, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial mindset essential for the future. Registration for the first student intake is already open, marking an important milestone in expanding high-quality, industry-relevant education opportunities within Qatar.
Justin Kerr-Stevens, Chairman of the Australia–Qatar Business Association, called the partnership a defining moment for bilateral relations and education. He praised Swinburne’s global reputation in technology, design, and entrepreneurship, fields central to Qatar’s diversification goals. He encouraged businesses to seize this opportunity for deeper collaboration in education, research, workforce development, and investment.
Dr. Adam Baker of Swinburne University of Technology emphasized the university’s century-long tradition of working closely with industry to produce job-ready graduates. He noted that every Swinburne student benefits from authentic, work-integrated learning experiences that align with industry needs, ensuring this partnership delivers real impact for Qatar’s workforce and economic future.
Earlier, Wei Li Wong, Director of Strategic Engagement & Partnership Development at Swinburne University College, welcomed guests warmly, noting the strong interest that led the event to exceed capacity. She highlighted the theme, Future Focused: Advancing Talent through Industry–Education Engagement, as a reflection of the collective commitment to preparing a resilient, future-ready workforce through meaningful collaboration. Wong underscored the importance of building an ongoing platform where industry and education meet to shape Qatar’s talent development agenda.
The event drew leaders from Qatar’s energy, technology, infrastructure, and finance sectors, demonstrating a shared dedication to aligning industry needs with national education goals. Among the participants also included Josephine Martinez, Chairman of the Australia–Qatar Business Association; Neil Devane; and a panel of industry experts who joined a dynamic discussion on collaboration, applied learning, and innovation.
The event concluded with a clear call to action for industry leaders to collaborate closely with educational institutions to build a resilient, future-ready talent ecosystem that will drive Qatar’s development and global competitiveness.
American Chamber of Commerce Qatar
Bangladeshi Community
Filipino Community
Indian Community
Nepali Community
Pakistani Community
Sri Lankan Community
This is step towards a good direction. With how the world is evolving towards or might I say is already in the midst of a new technological revolution, it is now crucial that the education system also evolves by encompassing the good of the past and integrating the requirements for the future. Only then can the next generation can be prepared, not only to contribute but to prosper.
An inspiring and forward-thinking initiative! The inaugural Industry Breakfast Briefing hosted by Barzan University College and Swinburne University of Technology marks a groundbreaking moment in Qatar–Australia relations and a significant leap toward Qatar’s knowledge-based future. By embedding industry-relevant, experiential learning programs in high-demand fields like cybersecurity and fintech, this partnership sets a powerful precedent for aligning education with national workforce needs. Commendations to all stakeholders for their visionary leadership in shaping a future-ready, globally competitive talent ecosystem for Qatar.
Your writing is a true testament to your expertise and dedication to your craft. I'm continually impressed by the depth of your knowledge and the clarity of your explanations. Keep up the phenomenal work!