Doha, Qatar: Edzip Education, along with its academic arm Salford Education, marked a historic milestone by hosting the GCC’s largest online student graduation ceremony on January 16, 2026, at the Salwa Hilton, Doha. The event honoured over 250 graduates who successfully completed DBA, Master’s, and Bachelor’s programmes, reflecting the institution’s 15-year legacy of delivering international higher education in Qatar.

The ceremony was attended by more than 500 family members and distinguished guests, underlining the growing recognition and impact of online and distance education across the Gulf region. Notably, Edzip Education / Salford Education remains the only consultancy in the GCC to organise a dedicated graduation ceremony exclusively for online students, reinforcing its pioneering role in academic facilitation and global programme delivery.

The event was inaugurated by esteemed members of the ruling family, H.H. Sheikh Jassim Thamir Al-Thani and H.H. Sheikh Tamir Jassim Al-Thani, lending ceremonial prestige to the occasion. Distinguished academic guests included Dr. Stuart Kewley, a Cambridge graduate and former Oxford Director of Studies; Dr. Antonia Santalova, Oxford alumna and founder of Oxford Study Limited; and Dr. Sahid Cholayil, AI scientist, futurist, educationist, and humanitarian.

Addressing the gathering, Edzip Education CEO Mr. Padmakumar expressed the philosophy behind the institution’s vision, stating:

“Education is not filling pots; it is igniting the fire. At Edzip, we ignite not only the fire of knowledge, but also the fire of humanity, compassion, and empathy.”

Reflecting this vision, the graduation ceremony was aptly titled “Ignatia' 26”, symbolising the spark of lifelong learning and holistic development instilled in every graduate.

Edzip Education / Salford Education partners with internationally recognised universities including Plymouth Marjon University, Woolf Malta, the University of Gloucestershire, and European University, ensuring GCC students access to accredited, high-quality academic programmes. The academy’s leadership team-comprising CEO Mr. Padmakumar and board members Mr. Mohammed Aslam and Mr. Mohammed Akram-played a pivotal role in organising the event and ensuring a seamless celebration of academic excellence.

The graduation ceremony also featured interactive sessions with senior academics and thought leaders, offering graduates valuable insights into global business, innovation, and leadership. The event highlighted how online education continues to bridge geographical boundaries, enabling students in the Gulf to earn internationally recognised qualifications while remaining locally connected.

Concluding the ceremony, Edzip Education reaffirmed its commitment to guiding students throughout their academic journey and promoting lifelong learning. The landmark event not only celebrated the achievements of its graduates but also reinforced Edzip Education’s position as a leading facilitator of international higher education in Qatar and across the GCC.

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