Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) formally welcomed the Class of 2030 during its 19th Convocation ceremony, marking the start of the students’ undergraduate journey at the Doha campus. The event gathered university leaders, faculty, staff, and students to induct the newest cohort into the NU-Q community.

In his address to the incoming class, dean and CEO Marwan M. Kraidy emphasized the importance of “basira,” an Arabic term encompassing insight, vision, and discernment. He characterized basira as intellectual clarity paired with moral judgment and the wisdom to perceive deeper truths beyond surface appearances. Kraidy framed the concept as particularly relevant in an era affected by rapid technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, which are transforming how people access and interpret information.

Kraidy outlined three dimensions of basira—imagination, integrity, and wisdom—and urged students to view their education as more than just acquiring knowledge. Highlighting the responsibility that comes with careers in journalism, communication, media, and related fields, he stressed that despite technological changes, facts, evidence, context, and empathy remain fundamental. He also encouraged the new students to adopt Northwestern Qatar’s core values of excellence, community, collaboration, and sustainability as integral habits rather than mere goals.

Northwestern University provost Erik Luijten, who began his role earlier this July, joined Kraidy in welcoming the students. Reflecting on shared experiences, Luijten noted that while he has been affiliated with Northwestern for over 17 years, this was his first year as provost. He focused his remarks on the value of curiosity, encouraging students to continuously ask questions, seek assistance, and embrace mistakes as part of learning. “Questions are the catalysts of our fields,” Luijten said, emphasizing that inquiry drives understanding and progress.

Representing the student body, NU-Q Student Government president Timaa Kamar, a member of the Class of 2027, shared reflections on her evolving university experience. Kamar described how her initial focus on projects and achievements expanded to include the meaningful relationships she developed with classmates, professors, and faculty throughout her studies. She encouraged the Class of 2030 to remain ambitious and embrace new experiences, while also appreciating the broader community and personal growth that university life fosters.

The convocation ceremony served as a formal welcome for the incoming students and set the tone for the academic year ahead at Northwestern University in Qatar.