The formation of such an association locally represents the first step in representing Qatar internationally as well as changing the future of dentistry education and practice in Qatar in the long term, the QU has said in a statement.
The QDSA aspires to establish a local and global platform that unites future dental leaders and encourages and prepares them to become competent and ambitious dentists.
It also aims to stimulate students’ creativity through learning outside the classroom, participating in interactive discussions, and organising events, all in collaboration with other student associations from around the world.
Dr Mandeep Duggal, dean of the College of Dental Medicine, said: “It gives me great pleasure to learn about the formation of the association.”
“The College of Dental Medicine is the newest college in the QU, and the first dental college in the State,” he added. “We are very proud of the initiative of our students to have established the QDSA, the role of which is to bring together all the students in dental education and organise professional, educational and social activities for dental students and keep them connected to both the profession and to the college.”
“All my staff join me in congratulating the students on this excellent initiative,” Dr Duggal said.
Dr Aala Daud, the association's adviser, said: “We are delighted to congratulate our students for creating the first Dental Student Association in Qatar.”
“The College of Dental Medicine is a newly established college and we are pleased with what our students have accomplished to date both academically and non-academically,” she said, adding: “I am proud to be the first faculty adviser and founder of the QDSA, supporting dental students with their inter-professional educational journey.”
“Creating an association that redefines dentistry for students by providing an extra-curricular platform locally and globally is the first step for future dentists to be supportive and effective healthcare providers within their community,” Dr Daud continued. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the QDSA student leadership and founding team for their commitment and hard work so far.”
QDSA president Layan Monajed said: “The association aims to unite, empower and represent all dental students in our beloved Qatar.”
“As the president of this association, I am proud of the great achievement that was made possible with the support of the university and the college, and it will be followed by a series of achievements and successes, Inshallah,” she added. “From this platform, I would like to thank the administration of Qatar University and dean of the College of Dental Medicine, Dr Mandeep Duggal, the organisation's adviser, Dr Alaa Daud, and Yaser Alqwasmi, the head of student clubs and organisations, for their help and support in establishing this association.”