Doha: Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) has revealed a strategic cooperation agreement with the National Archives of Qatar (NAQ) to offer a tailored version of its Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme aligns with NAQ’s organizational goals to enhance national capacity in preserving institutional memory and advancing knowledge sustainability. It aims to contribute to cultural continuity and innovation by adhering to the latest international practices in documentation preservation.
The agreement signing ceremony occurred in Doha at the National Archives of Qatar, attended by Dr. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Buenain, Secretary-General of NAQ; Aisha Khalid Al Saad, Assistant Secretary-General of NAQ; Dr. Bertrand Haan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Sorbonne Abu Dhabi; Dr. Yann Rodier, Head of the History Department at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi; and Dr. Hazza Al Naqbi, Head of Government Archives Section at the National Library and Archives.
The programme, delivered in Arabic by international experts and practitioners, is an intensive six-week training scheduled from 2nd November 2025 to 11th December 2025. It includes theoretical and practical modules covering legislation, preservation, digital archiving, and the management of current and semi-current records.
This collaboration involves Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi customizing its Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management specifically for NAQ staff. This customization aligns with the NAQ’s ‘Ousus’ programme, an initiative to enhance national expertise in public records management.
The programme’s goals include preserving Qatar’s institutional memory, strengthening governance, and building a professional framework to support the sustainability of archival work. It aims to unify national practices within an integrated institutional system that reflects Qatar’s strategic direction.
Dr. Bertrand Haan commented, “This partnership marks another milestone in Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s mission to empower professionals in preserving history and safeguarding knowledge for future generations. By customizing our professional certificate for NAQ staff, we reinforce our commitment to strengthening regional capacity and advancing sustainable preservation.”
Dr. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Buenain expressed, “This partnership with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi represents an important step towards advancing the archives sector in the country. Managing archives is not merely a technical task, but a national responsibility that contributes to preserving institutional memory and safeguarding documentary heritage.”
Aisha Khalid Al Saad added, “This collaboration enhances the ‘Ousus’ programme and reflects our commitment to investing in people as the foundation of sustainable progress. Our partnership with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi aims to develop national capabilities to preserve Qatar’s documentary heritage.”
The Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management, developed in collaboration with the National Archives (UAE), demonstrates SUAD’s regional commitment to professional excellence in documentation and heritage preservation, supporting sustainable knowledge management practices.
This partnership underscores Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s dedication to building knowledge-based societies across the GCC, bridging academic expertise with practical solutions to ensure long-term preservation of knowledge and cultural heritage.