HBKU Finalist Excels in Huawei’s Global ICT Competition

Following their success at a national level in Qatar, Dabeeruddin and his two teammates from Qatar University and the Community College of Qatar, had travelled to Shenzen to partake in the grand finale of the regionally coordinated initiative. 

In this stage, participants from 10 countries had the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in tackling some of the industry’s most complex challenges. Mentor to the HBKU’s international qualifier and a professor at CSE, Dr. Amine Bermak said: “One of our key priorities at the University is to keep our students abreast of the top trends in their respective industries, which helps them develop a skillset that is relevant to the job market. Huawei Technologies was a great partner to work with because they are a global leader in the communications field. We want our students to play a key role in shaping the future of technology-related industries, creating a positive impact on both Qatar and the world.” 

In laboratories situated inside Huawei Technologies’ headquarters in Shenzen, the Qatar team worked on a simulated scenario involving both theoretical and practical exam components. The complex eight-hour test necessitated competitors to demonstrate working knowledge of firewalls, cloud computing, switching, routing, and network security. They were awarded the Excellence Prize for their efforts in the final ceremony, which was attended by high-ranking government officials and senior representatives from participating countries’ embassies and consulates.

Describing his takeaway from the three-month journey in the international program, Dabeeruddin said: “My most memorable moment was the successful completion of the exam – it showed me that my professors and the quality of education at HBKU had effectively equipped me with all the necessary skills and technical knowledge I need to take on an expert-level and international competition. I was particularly honored that, while in China, I could represent the State of Qatar and give back to my community.

“Traveling opens one’s eyes to the fascinating advancements communities around the world have made in the way of scientific development. In China, for instance, I was truly amazed by the state-of-the-art technology in use at Huawei Technologies, its partnered institutions, and just generally, around the city. My recent travel experience inspired me to dedicate myself to the remainder of my graduate studies program at CSE, and then, upon graduation, work at the research centers of my alma mater – HBKU – to build and improve upon the incredible technologies in use around the world and launch a new wave of homegrown successes for Qatar.”

Preceding the final stage of the ICT Skill Competition that took top contender Dabeeruddin to China, three additional HBKU students qualified as local finalists in the national-level stage of the tournament. Aref Al-Tamimi, a graduate student amongst them, said: “Our participation in the Huawei ICT Skill Competition in Qatar was truly enjoyable. Our mentors at HBKU were determined to send us beyond the confines of the classroom, to explore and experiment, and to take the lead when it comes to finding tech solutions for a better tomorrow. To this end, we owe the organizers from Huawei Technologies special gratitude for bringing the tournament to Qatar and providing us with a quality learning experience.”

Following the conclusion of the competition, all contenders embarked on a special three-day visitor itinerary around the city. During this time, the students took guided tours to the Southern University of Science and Technology, theme park Window of the World, and China Folk Culture Village.