logo
BAB and Gulf University Sign Strategic MoU to Align Academic Programmes with Financial Sector Needs

BAB and Gulf University Sign Strategic MoU to Align Academic Programmes with Financial Sector Needs

Biz Bahrain07-05-2025
In a move aimed at enhancing the integration between academia and the financial industry, the Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gulf University. The agreement sets the foundation for long-term collaboration in academic curriculum development, professional training, and applied research in the banking and financial sector. This partnership is tailored to foster academic excellence and prepare graduates to meet the evolving demands of the banking industry. Under the terms of the MoU, the two institutions will work together to host mentoring programmes, research projects, and academic events. These initiatives will bring students into direct contact with banking professionals, while also contributing to the continuous evolution of academic content in line with industry needs. The collaboration includes joint efforts to organise and promote conferences, seminars, and specialised forums, ensuring that both parties contribute to a shared vision of sectoral advancement. Furthermore, Gulf University's curricula will be reviewed and updated in consultation with BAB to reflect contemporary trends and address real-world challenges in the financial and banking landscape. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. Waheed Al Qassim, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Association of Banks, stated that the agreement aligns with Bahrain's national sustainable development goals and the Central Bank of Bahrain's strategy to develop the financial services sector. Furthermore, Dr. Al Qassim noted that the banking sector leads in the employment of Bahraini nationals and highlighted BAB's ongoing initiatives to bridge the gap between higher education and the labour market by promoting best practices and fostering excellence among emerging professionals. Dr. Al Qassim underscored the importance of aligning academic programmes with the dynamic requirements of the banking industry, enhancing research capabilities, and offering Gulf University students experiential exposure to real banking environments. 'We firmly believe that sustainable development in the financial sector begins with the cultivation of a skilled and knowledgeable national workforce that can adapt to global advancements and contribute meaningfully to the sector's growth,' Dr. Al Qassim added.
Prof. Dr. Mohanad Al Firas, President of Gulf University, stated, 'This agreement is more than a formal partnership; it is a strategic investment in the future of our students and a bridge between academic learning and professional application. It reflects our commitment to forming robust institutional ties with the private sector and ensuring our academic outputs support the needs of Bahrain's knowledge-based economy.'
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Bahrain Targets Women's Leadership : SCW unveils 2025–2026 national roadmap
Bahrain Targets Women's Leadership : SCW unveils 2025–2026 national roadmap

Daily Tribune

time8 hours ago

  • Daily Tribune

Bahrain Targets Women's Leadership : SCW unveils 2025–2026 national roadmap

TDT | Manama Bahraini women are set to enter a new chapter of national development, focusing on assuming top leadership roles under a newly approved national plan by the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) for 2025 and 2026. New roadmap Titled 'Bahraini Women: Empowerment, Progress and Striving for Leadership', the plan was endorsed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and President of the SCW. It identifies four priority areas: family stability, decision-making, economic participation, and quality of life. Each area includes initiatives grouped under five axes: policy, budgeting, awareness and training, auditing, and evaluation. The two-year strategy builds on nearly two decades of institutional efforts to support women and aims to shift the focus from empowerment to leadership in both public and private spheres. From progress to power Unlike previous national strategies that concentrated on inclusion, the new plan signals a transition towards top-level leadership. It promotes women's access to senior roles across sectors, especially in fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital transformation. According to the SCW, Bahraini women now constitute 60 percent of the government workforce, with half of them in executive roles. In the private sector, women make up 36 percent of the total workforce and hold 36 percent of executive positions. The number of virtual commercial records owned by women reached 1,220 by 2024, representing 54 percent. Institutional partnership The plan introduces an implementation framework that engages government, private, and civil society sectors. This cooperative structure ensures shared national responsibility for advancing women, with clear roles and coordinated action. Among its goals are increased female participation on corporate boards, greater involvement in civil society leadership, and supportive family policies that allow women to balance personal and professional commitments. Forward strategy To improve quality of life, the plan outlines initiatives related to health, safety, and environmental awareness. It also includes programs to expand women's sports and improve support services in workplaces. By aligning with Bahrain's Vision 2030 and upcoming Vision 2050, the SCW aims to position Bahraini women as key contributors to sustainable development and economic growth.

Miknas Affirms Readiness to Strengthen Economic Collaboration Between Bahrain and Lebanon
Miknas Affirms Readiness to Strengthen Economic Collaboration Between Bahrain and Lebanon

Biz Bahrain

time3 days ago

  • Biz Bahrain

Miknas Affirms Readiness to Strengthen Economic Collaboration Between Bahrain and Lebanon

Akram Miknas, Businessman and Chairman of Promosven, affirmed that the recent official visit of His Excellency General Joseph Aoun, President of the Lebanese Republic to the Kingdom of Bahrain marks a historic turning point in bilateral relations between the two nations. 'The high-level meetings held during the visit, particularly the meeting between His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Excellency the President, represented a significant milestone in strengthening ties across political, economic, and social spheres. It also stands as the highest-level visit by a Lebanese official in decades.' said Mr. Miknas Mr. Miknas emphasized the readiness of Promosven and the wider Lebanese business community to contribute meaningfully to the activation of economic collaboration between Bahrain and Lebanon by translating signed agreements into tangible projects. 'It is essential to reinstate direct flights between Bahrain and Lebanon, given the critical role such connectivity plays in revitalizing trade, stimulating tourism, and enhancing overall economic exchange. Equally, streamlining visa and residency procedures is fundamental to facilitating the movement of investors and entrepreneurs, thereby enabling the expansion of joint ventures and reinforcing the economic partnership between both nations.' In a related context, Mr. Miknas noted that Lebanon today is in urgent need of support from all its Arab brothers to strengthen its economic and political stability. Bahrain was the first to offer such support, reaffirming Lebanon's rightful place within the Arab fold after a prolonged period of absence and unrest. This noble initiative by Bahrain has the potential to serve as Lebanon's economic gateway to GCC countries, which are distinguished by their diverse and well-established economies, advanced financial and commercial infrastructure, and a supportive environment for investment and business. Highlighting key opportunities for collaboration, Mr. Miknas identified promising avenues for private sector partnerships in areas such as technology, Islamic finance and infrastructure development. Enhancing cooperation with Bahrain, particularly in light of Lebanon's ongoing economic recovery, presents meaningful opportunities, especially by leveraging the expertise of Lebanon's highly skilled professionals in fields such as artificial intelligence and digital innovation. 'The peoples of Bahrain and Lebanon share deep cultural values rooted in openness, tolerance, and hospitality. These qualities have long supported successful economic partnerships and continue to create a welcoming environment for Lebanese entrepreneurs, many of whom have established thriving businesses fully integrated into the fabric of Bahraini society.' Mr. Miknas concluded by reaffirming the vital role of economic diplomacy and private sector engagement in strengthening the long-standing relationship between Bahrain and Lebanon, paving the way for a prosperous and mutually beneficial future.

LuLu Hypermarket Celebrates Global Flavors at ‘The World In Every Aisle' Festival in Bahrain
LuLu Hypermarket Celebrates Global Flavors at ‘The World In Every Aisle' Festival in Bahrain

Daily Tribune

time3 days ago

  • Daily Tribune

LuLu Hypermarket Celebrates Global Flavors at ‘The World In Every Aisle' Festival in Bahrain

LuLu Hypermarket at The Avenues Bahrain kicked off a vibrant and flavorful festival that brings together tastes from around the world. Aptly named 'The World In Every Aisle', the event was inaugurated yesterday in a colourful ceremony attended by ambassadors and diplomats from over 13 countries. To mark the launch, the dignitaries placed their hands on a giant glowing globe, symbolizing LuLu's vast international reach and the start of this global culinary celebration. The festival highlights top-quality products sourced from LuLu's global supply network, which spans more than 30 countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. Shoppers will find premium ingredients on the shelves, ready-to-eat meals in the Hot Foods section, and freshly baked treats like breads, pastries, and cakes from LuLu's in-house Bake Art bakery. One of the exciting features of the event is the spotlight on flavoured butters – a growing food trend. Bahraini entrepreneur Aida Al Mudaifa, founder of Early Riser, is showcasing a delicious range of nut, herb, savoury, and sweet butters that add a unique twist to any meal. Shoppers can also enjoy a special promotional offer: buy any selected product and get the second one at 50% off. This offer is available exclusively at LuLu Hypermarket in The Avenues Bahrain and will run until July 30, 2025. 'Our global supply chain ensures that we bring the finest products to our customers, fresh and with minimal waste,' said Mr. Juzer Rupawala, Director of Retail at LuLu Group. 'This festival is not just about food – it's about celebrating connections, cultures, and the amazing possibilities when the world comes together.' LuLu is also giving space to local culinary entrepreneurs and food trends, providing shoppers with a taste of Bahrain's vibrant food scene.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store