Doha: The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), in collaboration with Doha University of Science and Technology (UDST), announced on Thursday the introduction of innovative academic programs in animal health and veterinary sciences. This initiative is complemented by a foundation program for humanities-track students, designed to enhance higher education opportunities and cultivate national talent for priority sectors aligned with labor market demands.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Hareb Mohamed Aljabri, Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education Affairs at the Ministry, highlighted UDST as a pivotal partner in providing applied education that equips graduates with essential practical skills required in the workforce. He elaborated that the animal health and veterinary sciences programs were crafted in partnership with the Ministry of Municipality and other stakeholders, addressing national workforce requirements in animal security, public health, and food safety. This initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country's long-term workforce development strategy.
Dr. Aljabri emphasized the Ministry's dedication to expanding academic pathways, particularly for the 75 percent of secondary school graduates in the humanities track. The new foundation program will enable these students to pursue scientific and engineering disciplines after meeting English and mathematics standards, thereby broadening their academic and career opportunities. He also mentioned that students admitted through the government scholarship program will receive monthly stipends, with amounts increasing as they progress from a diploma to a bachelor's degree. The program offers a clear employment pathway based on the needs of participating entities.
Fahad Abdullah Al Hajri, Vice President for Student Affairs at UDST, described the Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences program as a pioneering initiative in Qatar. The program responds directly to labor market needs through an applied curriculum that merges veterinary and health sciences with extensive practical training. Set to commence in the Fall 2026 semester, the program aims to prepare graduates for careers in animal welfare, security, public health, and food safety through specialized courses and hands-on experiences in veterinary hospitals, laboratories, and related institutions.
Al Hajri highlighted the program's academic flexibility, allowing students to earn a diploma after two years or continue towards a bachelor's degree, with potential further studies in veterinary medicine. The first two years feature common courses and intensive practical training, enabling students to either enter the workforce with a diploma or pursue further academic achievements. Admission requires a high school certificate in the scientific track with a minimum grade of 60 percent and meeting core science, English, and mathematics requirements, with an option to enroll in the foundation program for university preparation.
Al Hajri confirmed that admissions are open and encouraged students to take advantage of these programs, which represent a significant enhancement to Qatar's higher education landscape, preparing national competencies to meet vital sector needs and support sustainable development.