The Technical Committee for Equating University Degrees in the State of Qatar is an important body responsible for providing technical and scientific opinions on the equivalency of foreign university degrees that are accredited by national academic accreditation bodies in the country of origin or by internationally recognized accrediting agencies.
These programs must adhere to a structured and regulated educational system, with proper procedures for enrollment, monitoring, and conducting exams according to Qatari standards.
The committee was established by a decision from the Council of Ministers No. (20) of 2017, facilitating the integration of graduates into the Qatari job market.
Formation of the Technical Committee for Equating University Degrees
Structure of the Committee and Its Members:
The Technical Committee for Equating University Degrees falls under the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and includes members from several key ministries and institutions. These members are:
- Ministry of Education and Higher Education: Three permanent members.
- Ministry of Municipality and Environment: One engineer member.
- Ministry of Justice: One legal member.
- Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour, and Social Affairs: One member.
- Ministry of Public Health: One medical doctor member.
- Qatar University: One academic member.
- Hamad Bin Khalifa University: One academic member
Selection of Committee Members:
Members are selected by the entities represented in the committee, with the president, vice president, and members of the committee being appointed by a decision from the Minister of Education and Higher Education. The term of membership is one year, with the possibility of renewal for similar periods.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Technical Committee for Equating University Degrees
The Technical Committee plays a central role in providing technical and scientific opinions regarding the equivalency of university degrees. Its tasks include:
- The Technical Committee plays a central role in providing technical and scientific opinions regarding the equivalency of university degrees. Its tasks include:
- Studying Equivalency Requests: Reviewing the applications for degree equivalency and issuing decisions regarding them.
- Verifying the Authenticity and Integrity of Documents: Ensuring the accuracy and validity of academic documents issued by official authorities before proceeding with the degree equivalency process.
- Organizing Student Enrollment: Coordinating the number of students enrolling in accredited educational institutions based on academic specializations that meet the needs of the labor market and the state’s requirements.
Committee Meetings and Decision-Making Mechanism
Committee Meeting Schedule: The Technical Committee meets once a month upon the invitation of its president. Additional meetings can be held when necessary. The committee makes its decisions by majority vote, and a meeting is considered legally valid if the majority of members are present, including the president or vice president.
Voting on Decisions: Decisions are voted on by the majority. In the case of a tie, the president’s side is given precedence. The committee provides a transparent and fair framework for making decisions related to degree equivalency.
The Role of Experts and Consultants in Supporting the Technical Committee
The Technical Committee has the right to consult experts and advisors both within and outside the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. These experts participate in meetings to provide specialized advice, but they do not have the right to vote. Their involvement helps the committee carry out its assigned tasks efficiently and effectively, ensuring informed decision-making and high-quality outcomes.
Committee Members’ Rewards and Regulations
Monthly Rewards for the Technical Committee Members: The members of the committee receive fixed monthly financial rewards as follows:
- Chairman of the Committee: 5000 Qatari Riyals.
- Vice Chairman: 4500 Qatari Riyals.
- Committee Members: 4000 Qatari Riyals.
Deductions for Absences from Meetings: If any member fails to attend a meeting, a deduction of 1000 Qatari Riyals is made from their reward.
This system encourages commitment and active participation in the committee’s work.
The Importance of the Technical Committee for Equating Degrees in the Qatari Education System
The Technical Committee for Equating University Degrees is an integral part of the Qatari education system. Through its responsibilities, the committee ensures that foreign university degrees align with Qatar’s educational standards. This contributes to maintaining the quality of education and enhances the ability of graduates to integrate effectively into the job market.
