Breaking Barriers: How Reboot01 is Cultivating Bahrain's Next-Gen Developers

Biz Bahrain

21-04-2025

We spoke to Yaman Al-Masri, Tech Lead at Reboot Coding Institute (Reboot01), who has been part of the institute since its launch in 2023. He has played an important role in shaping its immersive learning experience. A Computer Engineering graduate from the University of Bahrain, Yaman has been involved in coding education since the age of 17, conducting training in web and app development, full-stack development, AI, and cybersecurity. Q1: How does hands-on learning reshape tech education compared to traditional methods, and why is this shift so important, especially in Bahrain, a top tech hub in the GCC? At Reboot Coding Institute, we embrace an immersive, hands-on learning model refined over the last twenty years to produce mid-to-senior-level developers. Unlike traditional curriculums, we adapt in real-time with 01Edu, ensuring students stay ahead of industry shifts. Through mentorship and hands-on projects, we bridge the gap between education and modern tech demands. A university degree alone isn't enough for programming success. That's why we emphasize practical experience, agile methodologies, and essential soft skills. Our fast-paced, project-based model mirrors innovative tech environments, fostering collective intelligence, creativity, and adaptability. Students gain practical experience through more than 55 unique projects—ranging from building secure, WhatsApp-style messaging platforms to fully functional, Amazon-like e-commerce sites that build skills beyond basic coding—qualities highly valued by employers. Our program starts from zero, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds—technicians, civil engineers, and teachers—guiding them into full-stack development. Built on logic and critical thinking, the program reinforces these skills through a rigorous selection process that equips students for a dynamic, challenge-driven ecosystem. Additionally, 100% Tamkeen support is available for all Bahrainis, making tech career transitions more accessible than ever. 'I truly believe Bahrain's tech talent rivals and often exceeds the region, something I've witnessed more than ever lately.' Reboot students are securing roles at Citibank, KPMG, and Raincode even before graduating while standing out in competitions like StartUp Bahrain and Mashroo3i. Their drive, combined with our hands-on approach, equips them with the skills, mindset, and experience to thrive locally and globally. Q2: Tech and coding are essential across industries, from healthcare to AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity. How is student interest evolving, and how can they be trained for this demand?
Technology is integral to nearly every industry, with Industry 4.0 driving demand for skilled professionals. Reboot meets this growing demand with seven specialized tracks, including Cloud DevOps, AI, Java full-stack, and mobile development—all built on real-world projects. In addition, our upcoming AI Starter Program trains students and professionals to code, build tools, and strategically harness AI technologies like ChatGPT—transforming them into 10x programmers—faster, more efficient, and more innovative.
At Reboot, students come from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, proving that anyone with the right mindset and dedication can transition into the tech world. We spoke to three students, Omar Al Bahri, Ahmed Abdeen, and Mohammed Adwan, who had no prior experience in software development before joining Reboot. Omar is a Mechanical Engineer from the University of Bahrain with work experience spanning engineering, hospitality, and freelance work. Ahmed has a versatile background, studying electronics in high school and business and international logistics management at Bahrain Polytechnic. Meanwhile, Mohammed pursued interior design at the University of Bahrain and has professional experience in design and marketing. Q1: How has Reboot's dynamic and inclusive learning environment shaped your journey as a Software Developer, and what sets your experience apart from those who have taken more traditional learning paths? Omar: Reboot01 offers a Silicon Valley-style experience that is truly unique in Bahrain. Unlike traditional university settings with rigid structures, Reboot01 offers nearly 24-hour access and fosters collaborative learning, promoting creativity and flexibility. I remember struggling with C++ alone in university but grasped it quickly when surrounded by my peers. Reboot is built around this very principle. Ahmed: My tech journey began in college when I attended a boot camp, which sparked my interest in tech. When I found Reboot, I wasn't sure what to expect, but its gamified learning approach immediately stood out. Reboot's gamified learning, from its unique selection process to its program structure, felt like a series of interconnected puzzles leading to a big-picture understanding of software development. I've now been in the program for nearly two years as part of the first batch, and looking back, I am amazed at how much I have grown, both in skills and confidence. The transformation has been incredible. Mohammed: Coming from a non-tech background and having explored multiple career paths, I was looking for a challenge. The selection game at Reboot inspired me to pursue full-stack development. Unlike my university's rigid learning structure, which limited my experience, Reboot's 'learn-by-doing' approach—balancing independent problem-solving with collaborative teamwork—has significantly developed my problem-solving mindset and teamwork abilities.
Q2: Coming from a non-tech background without prior coding experience, how was the learning curve, and how prepared do you feel to enter the industry?
Omar: The learning curve can be steep, but what makes it easier is the diversity of students in the program. Many of us come from non-tech backgrounds, which creates a sense of relatability and support. One of my biggest interests is startups and entrepreneurship, and Reboot fosters this mindset through networking and exposure to top industry figures. Ahmed: I worked on projects at the university, but they were all in a traditional classroom setting. At Reboot, you tackle challenges solo and with peers. You quickly realize everyone solves problems differently because of their diverse backgrounds. I've learned that there's no single 'right' persona for a career in tech. The possibilities are endless.
Mohammed: For someone without a tech background, the learning curve can be intimidating, but Reboot's approach makes it manageable and rewarding for those committed to the process. The flexibility to learn at your own pace is vital, and Reboot builds your confidence, even with initial slow progress. With further training, I feel increasingly prepared for the industry.