The Changemaking Generation
Bringing research to the commercial market
Q Life interviewed the Executive Director of Qatar Science & Technology Park , Yosouf Al-Salehi , to learn more about how QSTP , part of Qatar Foundation Research , Development , and Innovation , has propelled innovation in Qatar ’ s science scene .
Why was Qatar Science & Technology Park ( QSTP ) established ?
QSTP was established by Qatar Foundation and given Free Zone status by the government due to the importance of its mission to support the nation ’ s research , development , and innovation ( RDI ) ecosystem . QSTP has attracted global industry leaders to invest in Qatar ; not just in terms of money but through RDI centres and technology development activities that have a cascading impact on Qatar ’ s human capacity pipeline development in high technology , facilitate knowledge transfer , and develop collaborative projects that address national priorities while also having global impact . It also provides a bridge between applied research and the commercial market .
Why do you think organisations like QSTP are important ?
QSTP plays an important role in attracting foreign direct investment , and positioning Qatar as an international destination for technology development . It fosters the most comprehensive value chain of research , innovation , entrepreneurship , and commercialisation in Qatar that supports our youth and tech entrepreneurs by helping them take their innovative concepts and exciting ideas to market . It is also enriching the RDI ecosystem by establishing bridges with national stakeholders and the public and private sectors - all of which contributes to strengthening the sustainability and diversification of Qatar ’ s economy .
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