Doha, October 22 (QNA) - Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has hosted the 52nd annual conference of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Industrial Electronics Society, marking the event's first edition in the Middle East.

The four-day conference attracted around 2,000 research papers and brought together leading scientists, engineers, practitioners and industry experts to discuss advances in industrial electronics and emerging technologies.

Key topics included power electronics, smart grids, artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity and Industry 5.0, with discussions focusing on improving industrial efficiency, integrating renewable energy and strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure.

The conference's emphasis on applied engineering research and industry partnerships aligns with Qatar's priorities in sustainability, digital transformation and economic diversification.

Speaking at the opening, Dr Eyad Ahmad Masad, HBKU vice-president for research, highlighted the importance of connecting scientific advances with practical applications. He said research universities play a key role in bringing together academic expertise and industrial capabilities.

Masad also underscored the university's efforts to promote research and innovation through partnerships across different sectors, supporting Qatar's transition towards a sustainable, knowledge-based economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Dr Mounir Hamdi, dean of HBKU's College of Science and Engineering, said hosting the conference reflected the university's commitment to linking research excellence with contemporary challenges shaping Qatar's future.

He added that bringing leading international researchers to Doha provided opportunities for knowledge exchange and the development of practical solutions to shared challenges.

The program, available both in person and online, featured keynote speeches by international speakers, technical sessions, industry panel discussions, tutorials and workshops. Participants also examined research findings and their potential practical applications.

The conference is expected to strengthen HBKU's engagement with the international engineering community and deepen cooperation between Qatar's research and industrial sectors as they respond to developments shaping the future of industrial electronics. (QNA)