Barzan University College (BUC), in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cisco Networking Academy aimed at enhancing cooperation between higher education and the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry. The agreement, formalized at a recent ceremony attended by Dr Guy Diedrich, Global Innovation Officer and senior vice president of Cisco Networking Academy, seeks to establish a framework for closer engagement that leverages industry expertise to enrich academic programs and student development.
The partnership reflects BUC’s strategic objective to better prepare students for career opportunities within the evolving digital economy. By integrating real-world industry perspectives and challenges into its curriculum, the college intends to equip its graduates with the skills necessary to contribute effectively to Qatar’s economic development, in alignment with the goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030.
Dr Hassan al-Derham, CEO and chairman of Barzan University College, emphasized the importance of forging strong links with industry partners to maintain academic quality while ensuring relevance to the market. He described the agreement with Cisco as a key step toward connecting students’ academic experiences with professional practice and deepening their understanding of the ICT sector.
The college’s Chief Academic Officer and Academic Dean, Dr Lotfi Belkhir, highlighted the role of meaningful industry engagement in addressing current and future needs within the technology sector. The MoU is expected to facilitate collaborative initiatives that will enhance the student learning experience and strengthen their readiness for future careers.
The collaboration with Cisco Networking Academy complements BUC’s ongoing partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, reinforcing the college’s commitment to delivering education that balances academic rigor with practical industry relevance. This new agreement is part of BUC’s broader efforts to expand its network of industry connections, ultimately aiming to support Qatar’s transition toward a knowledge-based economy by cultivating local talent with expertise in ICT and related fields.