Doha, Qatar: Strong interest from students in emerging technology fields is highlighting the growing importance of Qatar’s new Digital Transformation Programme under the Government Scholarship Plan for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Saleh Mohammed Al Miftah, a Professional Guidance and Career Development Consultant, said the programme was introduced as part of the Scholarship Department’s efforts to expand academic opportunities in fields aligned with Qatar’s future workforce requirements.
Speaking to Qatar TV yesterday, Al Miftah said the Ministry of Education and Higher Education coordinated with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to develop the Digital Transformation track, which aims to prepare students for the changing demands of modern workplaces and the increasing adoption of digital systems across government institutions and other sectors.
The programme offers several specialised fields for students seeking government scholarships, with around six specialisations available through scholarships in abroad and two through local scholarships at University of Doha for Science and Technology.
According to Al Miftah, the response from students since registration opened has been particularly encouraging, with many applicants showing interest in newly introduced fields that provide alternative pathways beyond traditional academic disciplines.
He highlighted interactive design and electronic archiving among the specialisations attracting notable attention, describing them as new areas that offer students opportunities to build skills suited to the evolving digital environment.
The programme provides opportunities for both types scholarships – in the country and abroad, allowing eligible students to pursue specialised studies either abroad or at institutions within Qatar.
Al Miftah said applications for the external scholarship track have already been opened, while the local scholarship opportunity at the University of Doha for Science and Technology is scheduled to open on November 15.
He also outlined some of the financial and academic benefits available to students who meet the scholarship requirements. Students receiving scholarships in abroad are eligible for a monthly allowance of QR14,000, in addition to an air ticket. The applicable ticket class depends on the destination and university, with business-class travel available in specified cases.
Students are also provided with QR25,000 before travelling to help them prepare for their studies abroad. In addition, scholarship recipients receive academic follow-up and support during their period of study.
The growing interest in the Digital Transformation track reflects the changing choices of students as new technology-driven professions gain importance in Qatar and globally.
The programme is also in line with Qatar’s broader efforts to develop national talent in areas such as digital technologies, interactive design, electronic records and other emerging fields that are expected to play an increasingly important role in the future economy.
By expanding scholarship options beyond conventional disciplines, the Digital Transformation Programme gives students new academic pathways while helping build a workforce capable of supporting the country’s continued digital development.