Qatar University (QU) and Mubadara for Social Impact announced the 2nd edition of the Qatar CSR Summit under the patronage of HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The highly anticipated event will take place from April 30 to May 2 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) under the theme “The Future of CSR in a Circular Economy”.

Organized by Mubadara for social impact, the forthcoming Qatar CSR Summit 2024 is integral to the 11th Qatar CSR National Program. In addition to the conference and exhibition, the event will feature the annual Qatar CSR National Report and the esteemed Qatar CSR Awards. This distinctive program recognizes both organizations and individuals who have integrated corporate responsibility into their business ethos and practices, thereby fostering positive outcomes for stakeholders and pioneering innovative sustainable solutions to pertinent social issues.

Prof. Rana Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at QU and Chairman of the Conference Steering Committee, embarked on the significance of the 2nd edition of the conference, stating, “The 2nd edition of the conference represents a substantial advancement compared to its inaugural iteration held last May, whether in terms of participation or the topics covered. The event enjoys the vast support of dozens of public and private Qatari entities, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the government partner, and Ooredoo, the exclusive telecommunications sponsor, among others. In addition to leading local organizations, this year highlights extensive international participation from a range of esteemed academic and humanitarian institutions, such as the UN Global Compact, UNESCO, and the International Labour Organization. The conference also features the MENA Business Schools Alliance for Sustainability (MEBAS) as an academic partner. Launched by QU's College of Business and Economics in October of the preceding year, MEBAS boasts 15 accredited business schools from the region, bringing valuable academic insight and expertise to the event.”

Addressing this year's theme, “The Future of CSR in a Circular Economy,” Sobh emphasized the depth of the conference agenda, commenting, “The conference agenda promises to be packed with thought-provoking panel discussions, informative interventions, and interactive workshops covering various aspects of the circular economy, sustainability, and human rights. Esteemed experts and academics will lead these sessions from top business schools and participating international organizations. The conference will also host over 15 international speakers during its sessions and accompanying workshops.”

Dr. Saif Ali Al-Hajri, President of Mubadara for Social Impact and CEO of the National CSR Program, said: “The remarkable success of last year's event has captured the interest of numerous regional and international stakeholders in corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and social development. We are excited about the extensive international participation anticipated this year.”

Dr. Al-Hajri added, “This event brings together key players in the field of corporate social responsibility from all over the world, promising to promote engaging discussions, facilitate the exchange of experiences and expertise, and embrace CSR global best practices and impactful initiatives in Qatar.”

Speaking about the Qatar CSR Awards, Jack Saba, General Manager of Mubadara, said, “Last year, the Qatar CSR Awards honoured the best CSR programs and initiatives in Qatar, spanning over 37 government and private entities across various sectors. We are delighted to invite all organizations and companies implementing CSR programs and initiatives to apply this year for one of the awards given in 20 different categories. A special judging committee comprising professors and academics from QU. Coinciding with International Workers’ Day will carry out the selection of winners, the Awards Gala Dinner will be held in the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel on May 1st. The ceremony will also pay recognition to the event’s sponsors and supporters.”

Haidar Mshaimesh, General Manager of IFP Qatar, said: “Organizing the Qatar CSR Summit is a testament to our company's commitment to enhancing social responsibility in Qatar. We aim to create a socially responsible event through a range of eco-friendly practices, such as using sustainable materials to construct pavilions. The exhibitions and conferences sector has always been a main driver of economic growth, and we are proud to demonstrate its potential as a catalyst for social responsibility and development.”

Through this significant event, QU convenes a distinguished group of scholars, economists, and experts in CSR practices under one roof. Where they will not only have the chance to showcase the initiatives and programs of corporate social responsibility but also raise awareness about its importance and contribute to shaping the future of social responsibility in Qatar.

For further details, please visit the summit's website.