Driven by their vital and active roles in society, the National Planning Council (NPC) and the Doha International Family Institute (DIFI), a member of Qatar Foundation, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for research collaboration on demographic and social issues. The MoU aims to exchange expertise, enhance the efficiency of staff and other personnel of both parties, and strengthen cooperation in research, studies, surveys, and opinion polls.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Raed Ibrahim Al Emadi, Assistant Secretary-General for National Development Planning and Policy Affairs at the NPC, and Dr. Sharifa Noaman Al Emadi, Executive Director of the DIFI.
Commenting on the signing, Mr. Raed Ibrahim Al Emadi, Assistant Secretary-General for National Development Planning and Policy Affairs at the NPC, stated: “This MoU represents a significant step toward strengthening research cooperation in demographic and social issues. This contributes to the development of an accurate and comprehensive database that supports policymaking and the advancement of programs in the State of Qatar, aimed at achieving the objectives of the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) and the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3)."
He further noted that the collaboration between the NPC and DIFI will facilitate the exchange of expertise and the utilization of data and specialized research findings to support evidence-based developmental planning based on accurate figures.
Dr. Sharifa Noaman Al Emadi, Executive Director of the DIFI, said: “Today's signing of the MoU formalizes a joint effort between the two entities across several areas that support family well-being, social cohesion, and balanced demographic policies. We have worked together on an important study examining the social determinants of fertility in the State of Qatar and the implications of related policies, in addition to several other projects that provide technical support for the development of informed, evidence-based policies."
The signing of the MoU comes within the framework of strengthening cooperation between the two parties in several areas, including research, studies, surveys, and opinion polls of mutual interest particularly in family-related issues such as marriage and divorce, the elderly, child well-being, fertility, and population growth.
The agreement also seeks to implement joint projects and programs that contribute to achieving the objectives of Qatar's NDS3 and subsequent strategies, organize joint scientific and training events, and exchange relevant data and information. These efforts aim to enhance the effectiveness of development planning, support the State's efforts to improve its ranking in international indicators, and develop specific indicators related to family well-being and population growth.
Additionally, the two parties will organize seminars, workshops, and other activities aimed at raising awareness and exchanging scientific and practical expertise in areas of mutual interest, as well as developing joint training programs to build the capacities required to implement demographic and social policies.
