University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) is proud to announce the establishment of the World Food Forum (WFF) Qatar National Chapter, for the first time in the Middle East, in partnership with the Ministry of Municipality. This collaboration marks a significant step in advancing food security initiatives, both locally and globally, to adopt sustainable agrifood systems.
The World Food Forum, hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is recognized as a leading global platform addressing the future of agrifood systems. The establishment of the Qatar National Chapter at UDST represents a significant contribution to the country’s efforts in advancing food security and sustainability, aligning with Qatar’s National Vision 2030.
Dr. Salem Al Naemi, President of UDST, stated: “The establishment of the Middle East’s first World Food Forum National Chapter in Qatar at University of Doha for Science and Technology reflects our commitment to Qatar’s National Vision 2030, particularly in advancing food security and sustainability. This partnership with the World Food Forum and the Ministry of Municipality positions Qatar as a global leader in addressing critical food security challenges and highlights the role of UDST in shaping responsible graduates. As an applied university, we are dedicated to equipping our students with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing global issues, inspiring them to actively contribute innovative solutions that drive sustainable progress for future generations.”
The event attracted thousands of participants from around the world, who actively engaged in meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts on critical topics, including food investment, science and innovation, youth involvement, family farming, indigenous food systems, and water management. Participants—including youth, farmers, policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and indigenous communities—were united in their dedication to addressing pressing issues such as hunger, food security, climate change, and inequality.
The participation of a delegation from UDST at the World Food Forum Flagship Event marked a significant moment in the University's commitment on an international platform to global food security initiatives. The delegation, comprising youth members from UDST and youth advisors from the Ministry of Municipality, actively engaged in discussions and knowledge exchange on sustainable agrifood systems.
Dr. Masoud Jarallah Al-Marri, Director of Food Security Department at the Ministry of Municipality, said: “Building on its recent achievements, Qatar is deeply committed to enhance its national food security and develop innovations in the agrifood sector till 2030. I am convinced that the launch of Qatar chapter at the World Food Forum will actively contribute to our national strategy by bringing collaboration, sharing knowledge and taking actions for sustainable, efficient and resilient food systems”.
A high-level bilateral discussion between Mr. Kazuki Kitaoka, World Food Forum and global youth engagement at UN FAO and Qatar delegation highlighted Qatar’s dedication to advancing innovative solutions and strengthening local capacity in food security on an international platform. Mr. Saleh Salem Al-Rumaihi, Head of Technical Office, Food Security Department at the Ministry of Municipality said: “By launching Qatar national chapter during the World Food Summit, we acknowledge that the future of our food systems will benefit from the engagement of the youth and fruitful intergenerational collaboration. Qatar is dedicated to provide its youth with the skills and tools to develop innovative ways and create change for a sustainable future”.
The World Food Forum announced Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Kuwari, a chemical engineering student and food security researcher from UDST, as the WFF Qatar National Chapter Youth Chair. Mr. Al-Kuwari’s appointment reflects the University’s dedication to empowering young leaders in addressing food security challenges. The WFF Qatar National Chapter along with the youth advisory committee will join hands to mobilize young changemakers, investors, and visionary leaders to create new pathways for a sustainable, inclusive, and food-secure future.
This achievement reflects UDST's commitment to developing future leaders and empowering them to address global challenges. By supporting such initiatives, the University continues to strengthen Qatar's presence on the international stage in the fields of food security and sustainability.
The WFF Qatar Chapter looks forward to uniting youth in Qatar for the National Youth Symposium at the Water and Food Security Conference in the Face of Climate Change, scheduled for February 2025. The event will also host the Arab Youth Competition, designed to showcase, develop, and explore regional initiatives aimed at strengthening the resilience of water and food security in response to climate change and environmental impact.
