The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) has launched a significant digital transformation initiative to modernise its operations by integrating Microsoft 365 Copilot and Azure AI Foundry technologies. The project aims to establish a unified, AI-enabled framework designed to streamline administrative processes and increase productivity for faculty and staff across the institution.
A Unified AI Framework for Operations
The initiative will use Microsoft 365 Copilot as the primary natural language interface for university employees, allowing them to interact with systems more intuitively. Behind the scenes, Azure’s agentic AI framework will automate, orchestrate, and connect complex workflows between different departments. This combination is expected to create a more efficient digital ecosystem, reducing administrative burdens and allowing staff to focus on higher-value tasks.
The project was unveiled at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 and is the result of a long-standing collaboration with Microsoft. It is sponsored by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) as part of a national agreement to accelerate digital adoption throughout Qatar.
Aligning with National Digital Goals
Dr Salem al-Naemi, president of UDST, stated that the move aligns with the university’s identity as an institution rooted in science and technology. “We strive to adopt the latest innovations and remain at the forefront of technological advancement,” he said. “This adoption also aligns with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, which guides our efforts toward building a thriving, future-ready digital economy.”
The national strategic agreement with Microsoft is designed to help government and semi-government entities use cloud technologies for rapid innovation, similar to how other national initiatives like the agreement to establish a post-production hub in Doha are building specialised economic sectors. Dr al-Naemi added that the new framework will empower employees to work more efficiently and help the institution achieve better outcomes.
Microsoft on the Future of AI in Education
Ahmed El Dandachi, general manager of Microsoft Qatar, highlighted the potential of agentic AI to drive efficiency and innovation in higher education. “By orchestrating multiple intelligent agents, Microsoft M365 Copilot empowers universities to streamline operations, solve complex challenges, and foster a more collaborative environment,” he commented. El Dandachi affirmed Microsoft’s commitment to supporting UDST in using AI to shape the future of higher education with secure and responsible solutions.
This initiative positions UDST as an early adopter of comprehensive AI integration in the higher education sector. By automating routine tasks and connecting disparate systems, the university aims to create a more agile and responsive operational model for its students and staff.
