(MENAFN- Gulf Times) Qatar University College of Engineering (QU-CENG) has hosted a panel discussion and a week-long exhibition on ‘The Streets of Doha', aimed at highlighting the transformation of the built environment in Qatar and its impact on the country's architectural identity, lifestyle and public space.
Organised in collaboration with the British Council and University College London (UCL) Qatar, the event was part of Qatar British Festival 2017.
It engaged more than 120 attendees, including CENG dean Dr Khalifa al-Khalifa, British Council Qatar director Dr Frank Fitzpatrick and UCL Qatar Professorial Research fellow Prof Robert Carter, as well as QU officials and CENG faculty, staff and students.
The panel discussion was delivered by Dr Fodil Fadli, head of the department, Architecture and Urban Planning, Qatar University; Ibrahim Mohamed, CEO of Jaidah Group and chief architect at Arab Engineering Bureau; and Mohamed Ali Abdullah from the Private Engineering Office, Emiri Diwan. They discussed the character of Doha's architecture and streets and the impact on urban life and its quality.
The event also saw the honouring of the winners of the Unlimited Doha Design Prize - architects Deena al-Terawi, Gizem Kahraman, Cherng-Min Teong and Alex Scott-Whitby, and archaeologist Omer Can Aksoy.
This was followed by an exhibition where the winners showcased their designs.
In his remarks, Dr al-Khalifa said: 'I would like to stress the importance of this event in enhancing the quality of life in the city of Doha and the life of its citizens in co-ordination with partners to come up with outputs that help support the development and progress of Qatar.
Dr Fitzpatrick noted, 'By organising discussions such as ‘The Streets of Doha', we can focus on opportunities available to young people through education, in a field that supports and empowers women.
Dr Fadli emphasised the importance of such events in raising awareness among students in particular and the community and society in general on streets in Doha.
Prof Carter added, 'I am particularly delighted to be involved in this event and exploration of Qatar's rich urban heritage, which is often underestimated in academic circles and public debate.
The Qatar British Festival 2017 is organised by the British Council in partnership with the British embassy. The event runs until December 8 and features a variety of activities, including public art and architecture, films and musical performances, with a special emphasis on appealing to women and children.
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