Doha, September 13 (QNA) - The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Iberdrola Innovation Middle East to strengthen academic and research activities in areas of mutual interest, bringing together UDST's applied education and research expertise with Iberdrola's experience in the energy sector.

Iberdrola Innovation Middle East is a world-leading innovation center, located in Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) since 2016, that aims at defining the digital utility, developing innovative digital solutions for renewable energy integration, smart grids, and energy efficiency and conservation.

Under the deal, the two parties will explore joint fundamental, academic, and applied research, research and development projects, and scientific publications, as well as participation in seminars, conferences, and academic meetings to promote knowledge exchange and professional engagement.

President of UDST, Dr. Salem Al Naemi, said at UDST, they believe that meaningful partnerships with industry leaders are essential to connecting education and research with the evolving needs of the economy.

He noted that this collaboration will create valuable opportunities for students and researchers to address real-world challenges in the energy sector, while advancing applied research and innovation.

  Al Naemi added that this partnership underscores UDST's commitment to preparing graduates with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to contribute to Qatar's sustainable development and to emerging industries both on the domestic and international stages.

Managing Director at Iberdrola Innovation Middle East, Dr. Santiago Banales-Lopez, said that collaboration between industry and academia is essential to advancing innovation and developing the expertise needed to address the energy challenges of the future.

  He noted that as digitalization and artificial intelligence continue to transform the energy sector, the partnership between the two sides will provide a valuable platform to connect knowledge with real-world applications, support research and innovation, and accelerate the development of AI-driven solutions for a more sustainable and efficient energy system, creating valuable opportunities for students and researchers.

Under the MOU, the partnership between the two parties will provide opportunities for student internships and training, co-supervision and sponsorship of master's students, and the exploration of co-organizing hackathons and innovation challenges, giving students opportunities to apply their knowledge to practical challenges. (QNA)