Doha: Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) announced the formation of three new study-abroad agreements with American universities. These partnerships were unveiled during QF's participation in the NAFSA 2026 Annual Conference and Expo held in Florida, USA.
According to Qatar News Agency, the agreements involve collaborations with Hampton University in Virginia, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Prairie View A and M University in Texas. Supported by the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Washington, D.C., these initiatives aim to enhance cross-cultural exchange and understanding between students based in the US and Qatar. The partnerships focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which were established in the US before the 1964 Civil Rights Act to primarily educate African American students. Today, 107 HBCUs offer education to students of all races.
QF emphasized that these agreements will allow students from HBCUs in the US to experience QF's unique learning environment within Education City. Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education and Education Advisor at QF, stated that the agreements showcase QF's dedication to creating globally connected learning settings and fostering partnerships that encourage inclusion, cultural exchange, and academic excellence. He expressed gratitude to the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Washington, DC, for their support in advancing this initiative.
Dr. Abdulnassir Al Tamimi, Executive Director of Student Services within QF's Higher Education division, highlighted the partnerships' focus on crafting meaningful, student-centered experiences beyond the classroom. He noted that hosting HBCU students and faculty offers them a chance to engage with Qatar's culture and traditions, while enriching the QF community with diverse perspectives and experiences.
The agreements have been well-received by the partner universities in the US. Robert Pompey, Senior Vice President for Business Operations and Finance at Hampton University, remarked that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to global education and cultural understanding. He emphasized the mutual benefits for both institutions through collaboration and innovation.
Marguerite Giguette, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Xavier University of Louisiana, expressed honor in collaborating with QF to expand students' academic and cultural horizons. Similarly, Dr. Godlove Fonjweng, Assistant Vice Provost for Global Engagement and Partnerships at Prairie View A and M University, noted that the partnership will create transformative global learning opportunities, reflecting the university's dedication to academic excellence and cultural exchange.