Doha, February 3, 2010 - The University of Calgary - Qatar (UCQ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Committee of Red Cross and Qatar Red Crescent to provide humanitarian assistance training programs for disaster and emergency relief. The first initiative of its kind in the Middle East, the Qatar-based programs will be offered in a 3 week course called HELP, Health Emergencies in Large Populations.

"We are extremely proud to participate in this important and valuable training program in Qatar," says Dr. Sheila Evans, Interim Dean and Chief Executive Officer of UCQ.   "Professional nurses are widely recognized as organizers and coordinators, and we bring the expertise, knowledge and ability to collaborate with the Red Crescent and Red Cross to train others to be of assistance whenever disasters or emergencies strike."

As part of this initiative, the University of Calgary - Qatar will help to identify national course moderators to assume responsibilities for conducting the courses. UCQ will also accredit and issue certificates to HELP course participants upon completion of the program.  Health care providers from many disciplines, including Medicine and Nursing, will participate in the training programs.  Dean Evans says "We anticipate that the Qatar-based HELP program will attract participants from the entire Gulf region. "

Evans says, "Haiti is the most recent example of a horrible situation that requires properly trained people to bring aid relief. We are eager to help Qatar lead the way in developing and mobilizing local and regional resources to provide that much-needed assistance. Playing an integral role in a healthy community includes providing essential care in the international community, especially when there is sudden and urgent need."

Evans adds, "In working with the ICRC and QRCS, the University of Calgary - Qatar looks forward to helping establish Qatar as a world renowned health education resource center."

Left to right, Jean-Michel Monod, ICRC; Abdulsalam al Qahatani, QRC; and Dr. Sheila Evans, UCQ Interim Dean and CEO