Manama:The Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has announced a significant agreement with Ahlia University aimed at supporting the university's expansion plans in Bahrain. The agreement, formalized during the Gateway Gulf 2026 event, is set to enhance the higher education sector by providing advanced educational environments that align with the evolving needs of both students and the labour market.
According to Bahrain News Agency, this agreement was signed in the presence of Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al Jahrami, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council. It underscores Tamkeen's commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that contribute to the development of high-value economic sectors. The initiative also focuses on utilizing international academic expertise, nurturing national talent, and offering quality employment opportunities in the education sector.
The project will transform Ahlia University's new campus into a state-of-the-art educational environment conducive to teaching, research, and innovation, utilizing the latest technologies. The expansion will increase the university's capacity from 2,100 to 5,000 students and broaden its academic offerings. This initiative is expected to create quality employment opportunities for various academic, administrative, and technical staff, thereby enhancing the sector's capability to meet the increasing demand for higher education in Bahrain.
Ahlia University, recognized as one of Bahrain's leading higher education institutions, plans to further develop its academic facilities and introduce new programs that align with future market demands. This effort aims to improve educational outcomes and enhance the competitiveness of the higher education sector.
Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, Chief Executive of Tamkeen, emphasized that the project exemplifies the strategic investments Tamkeen seeks to support, given their impact on the growth of priority economic sectors. Education plays a crucial role in developing national talent and equipping it with necessary skills, thus supporting the sector's sustainable growth and its ability to adapt to rapid changes.
Professor Abdulla Y. Al-Hawaj, Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ahlia University, highlighted that the cooperation with Tamkeen marks a significant milestone for the university. He praised Tamkeen's leadership for their support of national institutions and their economic contributions. Al-Hawaj also noted that the university is set to move to its new campus in Salman City shortly, with the first phase of the project costing over USD 30 million and featuring a solar energy project that covers more than 70% of the university's electricity needs.
The university's commitment to combining international standards with a national identity is evident, as it ranks among the world's top 300 universities and the Arab world's top 10 According to Times Higher Education rankings. With over 70% Bahrainisation, the university is dedicated to developing national talent and preparing future generations for leadership roles.
This initiative aligns with Tamkeen's strategic objectives for 2026, which focus on maximizing economic returns and job opportunities for Bahrainis. These priorities include enhancing governance, improving enterprise support, and stimulating private sector growth through innovative approaches.
Source Bahrain News Agency