Doha: May 06 (QNA) – Several Qatari recipients of the 2026 Qatar Foundation Excellence Award affirmed that the recognition by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, represents a strong incentive to continue excellence and actively contribute to the national development process, while appreciating Her Highness’s continuous support for creators and innovators across different academic and professional fields.
Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) during the graduation ceremony, the awardees expressed pride in receiving the prestigious honor. More than 120 applications were submitted this year, while a selection committee representing Qatar Foundation partner universities selected 16 outstanding graduates, including eight Qataris, based on exceptional academic performance and leadership in fields including technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, healthcare, law, and the arts.
The graduates highlighted the impact of Qatar Foundation’s education ecosystem in shaping their ambitions and future contributions. Several recipients emphasized their commitment to advancing research, innovation, and community engagement in Qatar while contributing to sustainable development and supporting the country’s future aspirations.
Among the honorees, Sheikha Noura Abdulrahman Al-Thani, a PhD graduate in Law from Hamad Bin Khalifa University, said the award reinforces her commitment to using legal knowledge in service of society. Khalid Al Abdullah, a Biological Sciences graduate from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, expressed his aspiration to specialize in oncology and contribute to cancer research and treatment in Qatar.
Officials from Qatar Foundation praised the graduates’ ability to work across disciplines and their commitment to ethical responsibility, noting that nearly 30 percent of awardees have already launched innovative startups integrating computing, healthcare, design, and education.