University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) held its successful “Clubs Festival” on campus encouraging students from across the University to interact and engage with the diverse range of clubs available to them as part of extra-curricular life at the University. The festival inspired them to explore their interests, hobbies, and passions.
The biannual event, led by the Student Engagement Department, a division of Student Affairs, is an important part of UDST’s efforts to cultivate a vibrant campus culture, as well as provide students with an unparalleled platform to grow beyond academic pursuits.
Close to 30 student clubs actively participated in the event, each with an interactive booth to represent the unique experience they offer to students, setting the campus abuzz with energy and inspiration. UDST clubs span a variety of interests including cybersecurity, animal rescue (Paws), art, e-gaming, debating, public speaking (Toastmasters) and cooking, with students also having the opportunity to start their own clubs to pursue unique interests.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST said: “As students embark on their new academic journey, it is important to remind them that UDST is more than just a place to learn, it's a community of people who want to see them engage in different activities, grow and succeed.
Clubs Festival is an opportunity for freshers to explore new interests, enjoy campus life, make new friends, and learn new skills. University is an experience that balances academics and personal growth and UDST in particular is a melting pot of diverse individuals who each have, a hobby, a culture, and a story to share.”
Dr. Christopher Bridges, UDST’s Vice President, Student Affairs, said, "We believe in the holistic development of our students, which is why we encourage them to participate in university clubs and organizations. The clubs provide a bridge between students from different backgrounds and interests and help create a more vibrant and engaged campus community. Club management and participation can help students develop their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. They can also learn about new cultures and perspectives, and make lifelong friends. In addition, clubs can provide students with opportunities to give back to their community and make a difference in the world. We are committed to providing a well-rounded education, extending beyond the classroom. University clubs and organizations are an essential part of this approach to student development."
A standout feature of the Clubs Festival was the “for students, by students” approach, a philosophy championed by the Student Engagement Department. The approach empowered students to lead their booths, fostering a sense of ownership and providing them with the opportunity to learn from their peers. Students representing clubs at the event were encouraged to compete for awards such as “Best Booth Decoration” which was presented to the “Art Club”, and “Most Engaging Club” presented to “Forever Friends Club” to inspire spirited efforts, attract new students, and increase club membership.
UDST’s clubs are the heartbeat of student life at the University, and the majority boast a membership of over 100 students. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, clubs offer hands-on activities focused on specific skills, providing invaluable support in helping boost students’ self-confidence whilst pursuing their passions. The clubs also help nurture talent across the University’s general population by enabling students to participate in major national and regional events, a testament to UDST’s commitment to enriching student life beyond academic performance and contributing to the wider community in Qatar.
University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) held its successful “Clubs Festival” on campus encouraging students from across the University to interact and engage with the diverse range of clubs available to them as part of extra-curricular life at the University. The festival inspired them to explore their interests, hobbies, and passions.
The biannual event, led by the Student Engagement Department, a division of Student Affairs, is an important part of UDST’s efforts to cultivate a vibrant campus culture, as well as provide students with an unparalleled platform to grow beyond academic pursuits.
Close to 30 student clubs actively participated in the event, each with an interactive booth to represent the unique experience they offer to students, setting the campus abuzz with energy and inspiration. UDST clubs span a variety of interests including cybersecurity, animal rescue (Paws), art, e-gaming, debating, public speaking (Toastmasters) and cooking, with students also having the opportunity to start their own clubs to pursue unique interests.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST said: “As students embark on their new academic journey, it is important to remind them that UDST is more than just a place to learn, it's a community of people who want to see them engage in different activities, grow and succeed.
Clubs Festival is an opportunity for freshers to explore new interests, enjoy campus life, make new friends, and learn new skills. University is an experience that balances academics and personal growth and UDST in particular is a melting pot of diverse individuals who each have, a hobby, a culture, and a story to share.”
Dr. Christopher Bridges, UDST’s Vice President, Student Affairs, said, "We believe in the holistic development of our students, which is why we encourage them to participate in university clubs and organizations. The clubs provide a bridge between students from different backgrounds and interests and help create a more vibrant and engaged campus community. Club management and participation can help students develop their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. They can also learn about new cultures and perspectives, and make lifelong friends. In addition, clubs can provide students with opportunities to give back to their community and make a difference in the world. We are committed to providing a well-rounded education, extending beyond the classroom. University clubs and organizations are an essential part of this approach to student development."
A standout feature of the Clubs Festival was the “for students, by students” approach, a philosophy championed by the Student Engagement Department. The approach empowered students to lead their booths, fostering a sense of ownership and providing them with the opportunity to learn from their peers. Students representing clubs at the event were encouraged to compete for awards such as “Best Booth Decoration” which was presented to the “Art Club”, and “Most Engaging Club” presented to “Forever Friends Club” to inspire spirited efforts, attract new students, and increase club membership.
UDST’s clubs are the heartbeat of student life at the University, and the majority boast a membership of over 100 students. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, clubs offer hands-on activities focused on specific skills, providing invaluable support in helping boost students’ self-confidence whilst pursuing their passions. The clubs also help nurture talent across the University’s general population by enabling students to participate in major national and regional events, a testament to UDST’s commitment to enriching student life beyond academic performance and contributing to the wider community in Qatar.
