Qatar University Workshop Explores Opportunities for Collaboration in Construction Sector

Attended by more than 130 academics and experts

Qatar, December 24th, 2018 – The College of Engineering (CENG) at Qatar University, in collaboration with Constructing Excellence in Qatar (an Ashghal initiative) and sponsored by Qatari Diar, recently organized a special workshop for industry and academics entitled “Bridging the Gap”, aimed to identify opportunities for collaboration between academia and all key stakeholders in the construction industry.

The event worked to bridge the gap between the academic field and the industry, to discuss problems, issues, and challenges facing construction industry in Qatar. The workshop sought to build better connections between researchers and industry practitioners, and to identify areas of collaboration for future action research and education.

The event brought representatives from many private and government agencies. They had the opportunity to exchange their ideas and experiences on research and teaching areas related to construction. Subjects covered included safety, health and welfare, Lean delivery, digital and BIM, procurement and supply chain management.

The event was attended by Prof. Abdelmagid Hammuda (Acting Dean, CENG), Prof. Abbes Amira (Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies, CENG), Eng. Ahmad Ali Al-Ansari (Technical Office Manager, Public Works Authority), Mr. Don Ward (Chief Executive, Constructing Excellence), Dr. Abdulla Y. Al Sayed (Chief Project Delivery Officer – Asia & Africa, Qatari Diar), Dr. Luai M. El-Sabek (Head of Utilities, Qatari Diar), faculty members, students, and representatives of public and private sectors. In all, over 130 people attended.

In his remarks, Prof. Hammuda said: “This event is part of CENG’s commitment to reinforce relations with industrial stakeholders and push forward collaborations and joint initiatives in order to enhance CENG services that respond to industry’s requirements and needs. It will further develop the progressive research efforts between both parties towards wider partnerships that benefit everyone.”

Don Ward of Constructing Excellence commented: “Any sustainable industry needs strong links with universities, and construction is no exception. This is an important start to help academics and industry understand each others’ challenges and find ways to work together for mutual benefit. We look forward to supporting this programme of activity.”

Dr. Abdulla Y. Al Sayed presented an overview of local and international projects of Qatari Diar. He said: “I am proud to share with you the unique experience of implementing Lean Construction in Lusail City program since 2008 to advance the knowledge of project delivery processes from planning to operation. The principles of Lean in construction were derived from Toyota Production Philosophy after reinterpretation of the theory to suit the peculiarities and dynamic nature of construction projects.”

Dr. El-Sabek invited all academic and research institutions in Qatar to support this initiative to bridge the gap between theory and practice. He highlighted the importance of introducing Lean Construction education and action research to support the community and empower tomorrow’s engineers to achieve Qatar Vision 2030.

Source:  http://www.qu.edu.qa/newsroom/Engineering/QU-Workshop-Explores-Opportunities-for-Collaboration-in-Construction-Sector