The Shura Council’s General Secretariat in Qatar has completed preparations for the opening of the Council’s second ordinary session of its second legislative term, marking the 55th annual session, the Council’s Secretary-General HE Nayef bin Mohammed Al Mahmoud announced Sunday.

Speaking to local media in Doha, Al Mahmoud detailed the extensive organizational and logistical work carried out to ensure the smooth conduct of the session. This includes testing technical systems, verifying facility readiness, and coordinating with relevant entities responsible for buildings, technologies, and personnel. Following the opening session, the Council will proceed with the first working session where internal procedures will be implemented in accordance with Shura Council regulations.

Al Mahmoud emphasized that preparations extend beyond the initial session to encompass weekly meetings, committee sessions, reception of parliamentary delegations, bilateral meetings, and support for Council activities both domestically and internationally. The General Secretariat relies heavily on qualified national personnel across administrative, legal, and parliamentary functions to maintain institutional continuity, uphold approved regulations, and meet directives from Council leadership.

Highlighting the Secretariat’s evolving role, Al Mahmoud noted its responsibilities go beyond administrative tasks to include specialised legal functions and political and diplomatic expertise inherent in parliamentary work. He stressed the importance of operating within a clear institutional framework to enhance coordination and improve operational quality and efficiency.

The Secretary-General also reviewed progress on the General Secretariat’s 2025-2030 strategic plan, which was launched during the previous legislative session. The strategy outlines six main objectives: strengthening institutional governance; enhancing operational efficiency through digital transformation and innovation; supporting legislative and oversight roles; expanding local and international partnerships; developing a workforce equipped for future needs; and increasing community engagement. A total of 46 projects are slated for implementation over the five-year period.

According to Al Mahmoud, the strategy’s first year has successfully reinforced governance by clarifying departmental roles, documenting procedures, and refining operational mechanisms. Digital transformation efforts have automated many Council processes and improved technological infrastructure, enabling most Council operations to be conducted electronically.

Among the digital systems developed are “Injaz,” for project and strategy management, and an “Integrated System” that facilitates employee and departmental access to essential human resources and financial services while serving as a data repository. The digitization of the Sessions and Committees Department’s workflows has also significantly reduced paper consumption by converting over 250,000 printed sheets into digital documents. This shift has resulted in cost savings and environmental benefits.

Al Mahmoud linked these advances to Qatar National Vision 2030, underscoring their role in promoting institutional efficiency, sustainability, and the adoption of modern digital solutions within the legislative framework.