Doha, May 10 (QNA) - Qatar University (QU), through the Center for Entrepreneurship at the College of Business and Economics, concluded the "Al Fikra" National Competition for Higher Education 2026, a leading national initiative that brings together university students from across Qatar to showcase innovative ideas and entrepreneurial solutions that address real-world challenges.

In its latest edition, Al Fikra further strengthened its position as a national platform that nurtures entrepreneurial talent, fosters creativity, and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration.

This year's competition engaged nearly 750 students from 14 universities across Qatar, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting a knowledge-based economy and contributing to a sustainable future in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly the pillars of Human Development, Economic Development, Social Development, and Environmental Development.

The competition was organized in collaboration with key strategic partners, including Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB), the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) – Digital Incubation Center (DIC), Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), Hult Prize Foundation, and A-typical Ventures.

Commenting on the initiative, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at the College of Business and Economics at QU, Dr. Khalid Al Hashimi said, "Al Fikra National Competition for Higher Education 2026 reflects our strong belief in the transformative role of education in driving progress and inspiring meaningful change. We are proud to provide a national platform that empowers students to challenge conventional thinking, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to building a future grounded in innovation, resilience, and sustainable development."

For his part Al Fikra Manager and Senior Pre-Incubation Specialist at the QU Center for Entrepreneurship, Juha Peralampi added: "Al Fikra represents more than a competition; it is a comprehensive platform that supports student entrepreneurs throughout the innovation lifecycle, from idea generation to implementation. Through this experience, students develop the entrepreneurial mindset, practical skills, resilience, and confidence needed to succeed in today's rapidly evolving global economy."

He further noted: "By connecting emerging innovators with industry leaders, investors, mentors, and ecosystem partners, we not only support promising ventures but also create pathways for student startups to access regional and international opportunities, including global entrepreneurship competitions and incubation programs. Through Al Fikra, we contribute to shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs capable of creating meaningful economic and social impact in Qatar and beyond."

Participants progressed through a comprehensive entrepreneurial journey that included ideation workshops, mentorship sessions, capacity-building activities, and final presentations evaluated by a panel of experts from academia and industry.

The competition focused on developing impactful solutions aligned with national priorities and global sustainability goals, further reinforcing QU's role in advancing innovation-driven education and community impact.

The competition concluded with the recognition of outstanding student teams. Team "HERO" from Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar (WCM-Q) secured first place and received a cash prize of QAR 20,000, followed by Team "VORA" from Qatar University in second place with a prize of QAR 15,000, and Team "TAWAZUN" from Qatar University too in third place with a prize of QAR 10,000.

The Al Fikra National Competition for Higher Education 2026 reflects QU's continued commitment to experiential learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship, further strengthening its role as a leading national institution that contributes to sustainable development, knowledge creation, and human capacity building in Qatar. (QNA)