Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Launches Archives Management Certificate With NAQ

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) has partnered with the National Archives of Qatar (NAQ) to offer a tailored Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management.

This initiative aims to enhance national capabilities in preserving institutional memory and promoting knowledge sustainability. It aligns with NAQ's goals, focusing on cultural continuity and innovation through modern documentation practices.

The programme, delivered in Arabic by international experts, is valid until 11 December 2025. It includes theoretical and practical modules on legislation, preservation, digital archiving, and managing current and semi-current records. This training is specifically designed for NAQ staff under the "Ousus" programme, which aims to boost national expertise in public records management.

Dr. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Buenain, Secretary-General of the National Archives of Qatar, emphasised the significance of this collaboration. He stated: "This partnership with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi represents an important step towards advancing the archives sector in the country. It is part of the Archives' ongoing commitment to developing national talent equipped with the knowledge and skills to manage records in accordance with the highest international standards."

Sorbonne Abu Dhabi's Professional Certificate reflects its dedication to regional excellence in documentation and heritage preservation. Developed alongside the National Archives (UAE), it supports sustainable knowledge management practices across the region. This partnership underscores SUAD's role in fostering knowledge-based societies within the GCC.

Dr. Bertrand Haan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, highlighted: "This partnership marks another milestone in Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi's mission to empower professionals in preserving history and safeguarding knowledge for future generations."

The collaboration aligns with Qatar's strategic direction by unifying national practices within an integrated system. It aims to preserve Qatar's institutional memory while strengthening governance frameworks that support archival work sustainability.

Aisha Khalid Al Saad, Assistant Secretary-General of NAQ, remarked: "This collaboration enhances the 'Ousus' programme and reflects our commitment to investing in people as the foundation of sustainable progress."

By bridging academic expertise with practical solutions, this partnership ensures long-term preservation of knowledge and cultural heritage across the GCC. It reinforces SUAD's commitment to building societies grounded in knowledge while advancing sustainable preservation practices.

Dr. Yann Rodier from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and Dr Hazza Al Naqbi from NLA were present at the signing ceremony held at NAQ in Doha. The event marked a significant step towards achieving sustainable development goals through enhanced archival management practices.