Qatar raises bar for Gulf nurses

The University of Calgary - Qatar (UCQ) became the first Canadian university to offer a Bachelor of Nursing degree programme in the Gulf region in 2007. It began with six students and enrolment has now swelled to nearly 75.

"We are delivering the quality nurse education that was sought by the State of Qatar," says Interim Dean and CEO, Dr Sheila Evans, speaking at the Arab Health Exhibition and Congress.

Under the banner of Leading the Change, UCQ was one of a consortium of leading medical and educational institutions and organisations from Qatar. Headed by the Ministry of Health, Qatar mounted the biggest pavilion of any Gulf country at Arab Health from 26 to 29, January, 2009.

"The stereotypical image of the nurse is someone with a white uniform and cap performing routine chores," Dr Evans said. "Today's nurse is a highly trained professional who assesses health and illness. He or she provides nursing care as well as providing leadership in health promotion and in community wellness."

The University of Calgary is ranked as one of Canada's top seven research universities. The University of Calgary's Faculty of Nursing is renowned for its excellence in clinical practice and family health care. Qatari nursing students are educated to the same Canadian standards and receive the same credentials as students at the Calgary campus.

"For Qataris who are looking to lead in healthcare, the Baccalaureate is the foundation," said Dr Evans. "Dr Nabila Lal-Meer, Executive Director of Nursing at Hamad Medical Corporation, and Dr Fouzia Al-Nami, Nursing Advisor, National Health Authority, both have their PhD in nursing and they are leading nursing and healthcare in Qatar. It's always better developing your own talent rather than importing it. Eventually, when UCQ begins to offer Masters and PhD programmes, Qatari students who have graduated from UCQ will become members of faculty. They will provide both healthcare leadership and educational leadership. What a tremendously proud moment that will be for the State of Qatar.

"The University of Calgary - Qatar values its partnership with the State of Qatar and is excited about working with Qatar healthcare partners to realise shared visions of excellence in healthcare."