The National Archives of Qatar has signed a partnership agreement with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi to offer a Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management. This collaboration is part of the Archives’ broader efforts to develop national competencies in managing documentary heritage and to promote sustainable practices in document preservation. The programme will enhance the technical capabilities of professionals in the field, drawing on global best practices in documentation and preservation.
A Step Forward in Professional Training
The new partnership aligns with the National Archives of Qatar’s ongoing commitment to establishing a knowledge-based infrastructure for sustainable institutional growth. As Qatar undergoes a digital transformation, the National Archives is focused on ensuring that its documentary practices evolve to meet international standards. This collaboration forms part of the “Ousus” programme, launched by the National Archives in May, which covers administrative, technical, and field training aspects.
Qatar National Vision 2030
The agreement with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is seen as a key step towards supporting Qatar National Vision 2030. By providing Qatari professionals with the skills and expertise to manage the country’s documentary heritage, the programme aims to preserve institutional memory while enhancing governance. This strategic initiative supports the sustainability of Qatar’s documentary work and ensures that national practices align with the country’s long-term goals.
Dr Ahmed Abdullah al Buainain, Secretary-General of the National Archives, highlighted the importance of the partnership, emphasizing that document management is not just a technical task but a national responsibility. It plays a vital role in safeguarding documentary heritage and supports sustainable development within institutions. According to Al Buainain, the partnership with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi will help to develop the knowledge and skills needed to manage archives in line with international standards.
Programme Details
The Professional Certificate programme will be delivered in Arabic, starting from Sunday and running until December 11. It will be taught by a team of experts specialising in document management and digital archiving. The programme combines theoretical and practical elements, covering a range of topics including legislation and policies governing document management, classification and preservation techniques, technical processing, restoration, and the management of electronic documents in the face of rapid digital advancements.
Aisha Khalid al Saad, Assistant Secretary-General of the National Archives, stated that the partnership with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi represents a significant development for the ‘Ousus’ programme. She noted that such academic partnerships are crucial for improving the efficiency of institutional work and achieving long-term excellence. Furthermore, she stressed the value of investing in human resources to preserve the nation’s memory, a fundamental element of sustainable growth.
Expanding the Programme
The “Ousus” programme has already benefited over 30 employees from the National Archives, with the first phase focusing on academic qualifications. There are plans to extend the programme in the future to include other government bodies, helping to build a network of professionals skilled in records management. The National Archives’ ongoing efforts reflect Qatar’s commitment to nurturing a workforce capable of preserving its documentary heritage for future generations.
For more about the role of archives in shaping Qatar’s future, read about QNB Group’s support for the Gulf Businesswomen Forum.
