Ahlia University’s Involvement in National SDG Policy Development in Bahrain

Ahlia University in Bahrain is directly involved in and contributes to national government Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) policy development across all the mentioned stages. The university actively participates in identifying challenges, shaping policies and strategies, modelling future scenarios, monitoring and reporting progress, and enabling adaptive management for sustainable development. This comprehensive involvement is evidenced by Ahlia’s strategic alignment with SDGs, collaborative research efforts with government and NGOs, alignment with Bahrain’s Vision 2030, formal partnerships, and its role as a key educational partner in the country’s SDG initiatives.

Aligning University Strategy and Governance with the SDGs

Ahlia University has embedded the SDGs into its core strategy, policies, and governance, ensuring that its internal operations and academic mission align with national and global sustainability goals. The university developed a Sustainable Development Plan (2021–2025) that integrates the UN SDGs into its vision, mission, and strategic objectives ahlia.edu.bh sdgs.un.org. This plan commits Ahlia to contributing to Bahrain’s national strategies and Vision 2030 initiatives while upholding international sustainability standards ahlia.edu.bh. In practice, Ahlia has revised curricula and internal policies to support SDG implementation – for example, aligning teaching and learning policies with priority SDGs (such as Quality Education and Gender Equality) and updating staff policies to promote research and community engagement in sustainability ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. These governance measures make Ahlia an institutional model for sustainability, as reflected in its Times Higher Education Impact Rankings (Ahlia was ranked 1st in Bahrain and among the top 15 globally for SDG4 Quality Education) ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. By aligning its strategy and operations to the SDGs, the university not only advances campus sustainability but also positions itself to support national SDG policy agendas through expertise and example. Notably, integrating SDGs into academia has led Ahlia’s faculty and students to produce “217 published research studies with recommended conclusions to support society and policy making” ahlia.edu.bh, directly providing knowledge and evidence to inform public policies and development plans.

Sustainable Development Goals

 

SDGs commitment

AU developed Sustainable Development Plan (2021-2025), the plan is developed to reflect AU’s commitment towards UNSDGs and to contribute to National Strategies as well as International Standards.

This plan is committed to contribute to national strategies and Initiatives (2030) and create an impact at National, Regional and International Level for sustainable future for our next generations.

The plan is focused on SDGs as a priority, AU carefully selected the 7 SDGs with assurance of its relationships with national strategies and government directions, AU emphasis on Quality Education and providing a sustainable future for all and promotes UNSDGs to be part of its core functions, teaching and learning, research as well as community.

 

Integrating Education Sustainable Development (ESD) Skills within Academic Programs:

Ahlia University academic programs was revised with a consideration of Educational for Sustainable Development (ESD) Framework by UNESCO.  AU aligned the ESD competencies with AU graduate attributes with a focus on key skills including (adaptability, personal resilience, connectivity, engagement, negotiation, global citizenship, research, ethics and innovation). The key skills are integrated within courses through specific intended learning outcomes related to knowledge, applied skills, critical thinking and general and transferable skills. The courses are carefully crafted with assurance of learning cascaded across 4 years of study, the learning outcomes are assessed through direct and in-direct assessments. The integration of UNSDGs within the curriculum enabled generating 217 published research studies with recommended conclusions to support the society and policy making.

 

Conducting Annual Conferences tackling UNSDGs

Ahlia University in collaboration with Brunel University of London and University of Business and Technology (KSA) is conducting the annual conference tackling Equal Opportunities in the fields of Business and Technology. The conference attracted 170 researchers from 27 different countries including GCC, UK, USA and Africa. The conference also attracts policy makers from regulatory authorities including the Supreme Council of Women to discuss vital topics related to women empowerment, gender equality etc. The outcome of the conference includes publishable research in Scopus indexed proceeding.

 

Voluntary Reporting of AU’s Commitment:

Ahlia University is committed to knowledge sharing therefore, AU reports annually the major achievements against UNSDGs and share it voluntary through United Nations Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) Platform. The platform includes progress tracking on the committed actions which includes integration of UNSDGs in the curriculum to support UNSDG4. For more information, please see: UN HESI – Platform Commitment Ahlia University Sustainability Initiative | Department of Economic and Social Affairs

 

Ahlia University Sustainability Initiative

Description

Ahlia University considers Social Responsibility and Sustainability as part of its prioritised strategies that is embedded in its core functions including teaching, research and community. The University is committed to contribute and work towards United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through encouragement of research in various research areas such as quality education, equal opportunities and sustainable growth. In order to create a recognised impact Ahlia University promotes partnership with national and international organisations tackling UNSDGs.

Implementation of the Project/Activity

Ahlia University (AU) aligned the UNSDGs initiatives as part of it strategies, a University Sustainable Development Plan (2021-2025) was developed and approved with clear set of initiatives to contribute to the overall UNSDGs with prioritized measures. In the next 5 years AU is committed to increase the number of publications in specific areas including gender equality, quality education and sustainable growth. AU is also committed to revise the structure of the curriculum to include higher percentage of critical long term sustainable thinking skills with social responsibility across all fields. AU aims to produce society ready graduates equipped with social responsibility and life-long learning skills to support managing global growth and sustainability. In order to assure effective implementation of the planned initiatives within the Sustainable Development Plan (2021-2025) the plan will be evaluated by Centre for Accreditation and Quality Assurance and reported to the University senior management for decision making. The actions will be measures the contribution in increasing number of research in relation to sustainable growth, contribution in various out-reach activities considering social responsibility and promoting life-long learning skills.

Governed

Centre for Accreditation and Quality Assurance at Ahlia University will be responsible to communicate with other national and international networks to engage and share best practices of implementing and contributing to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through contributing in events at both levels hosting and contributing. In addition, the Centre will be also the focal point for revising policies and procedures to support the implementation of UNSDGs.

 

Collaboration with Government and NGOs for Global Well-Being and Research

Ahlia University contributes to identifying problems and crafting solutions for sustainable development in Bahrain by engaging in collaborative research and community initiatives with government bodies and NGOs. The university actively partners with government agencies, non-profits, and industry on research projects addressing national and global challenges ahlia.edu.bh. Through these joint research initiatives, Ahlia provides insights into pressing issues in areas like education, health, technology, and social development, thereby contributing evidence-based solutions and policy recommendations that support Bahrain’s SDG targets ahlia.edu.bh. For example, Ahlia hosts an Annual Research Forum and international conferences where scholars and policymakers convene to discuss current development challenges. These forums have tackled topics such as water and energy security, digital innovation, and equal opportunities, helping to identify societal problems and evaluate potential interventions. The conferences (often organized in collaboration with institutions like Brunel University London and under the patronage of Bahraini officials) serve as a platform to “shed light on … digital innovation and business sustainability … to support policy makers, business leaders and higher education institutions” ahlia.edu.bh. One key outcome is to “act as a guide for … policymakers while devising or revising policies and procedures related to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals” ahlia.edu.bh. By convening stakeholders and sharing research findings, Ahlia directly feeds into the national SDG policy dialogue, helping government and civil society identify challenges and formulate strategies. Additionally, Ahlia’s collaboration with the Supreme Council for Women (a national regulatory authority) in conferences on gender equality ensures that policy inputs on SDG5 (Gender Equality) are informed by research and discussion of on-ground challenges ahlia.edu.bh. These examples illustrate Ahlia’s role in the early stages of policy development – it helps pinpoint issues and provides data and analysis (including scenario studies) that policymakers can use to design effective interventions.

7th Equal Opportunities Conference

ahlia.edu.bh

Under the patronage of his excellency Mr. Ahmed Bin Salman Al Musalam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives. Ahlia University cordially invites you to 7th Equal Opportunities Conference ’Digital Innovation and Business Sustainability’. ‎organized by Ahlia University in collaboration with Brunel University London and the University ‎of Business and Technology KSA, the conference will take place 6th -8th February 2024, Gulf Hotel, Manama Bahrain.

This conference aims ‎to shed the light on topics related to the use of digital innovation and business sustainability that ‎could support policy makers, business leaders and higher education institutions in various ways in relation to usage of different digital innovative tools to support operations and business sustainability. The audience will benefit from different research papers from national, regional, and international scholars discussing real issues tacking the use of digital innovation in different aspects including governance, education, communication, and other related fields. In line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the conference is focused on Gender Equality and therefore topics will be presented with a gender quality focus.

The conference aims to ‎tackle issues related to the following aspects: ‎

·         Assess the impact of Digital Innovation and Business Sustainability on organizational ‎effectiveness. ‎

·         Shed light on different Digital Innovation tools and techniques in relation to the business sustainability in different contexts.

·         Publish high-quality research that focuses on gender quality in terms of application, use or practice of different digital innovation tools in a transformative ‎business environment covering various contextual factors.

·         Act as a guide for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers while devising or revising policies ‎and procedures related to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information, please visit the conference page.

 

Alignment with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and National Development Goals

Ahlia University’s mission and research agenda are closely aligned with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and national SDG framework, underlining its commitment to national policy goals. The university explicitly considers the needs of the Bahraini community and Vision 2030 priorities when shaping its research focus areas ahlia.edu.bh. In its strategic plan, Ahlia identified niche fields (e.g. entrepreneurship, Islamic finance, ICT) where it can make strong contributions to economic and social development in line with Vision 2030 and the Bahrain National Research Strategy ahlia.edu.bh. This alignment means that Ahlia’s academic output and programs directly support national development strategies for economic diversification, human capacity building, and social welfare – all of which map onto various SDGs. According to the university, its sustainable development plan is “focused on SDGs as a priority” and was designed to “contribute to National Strategies and Initiatives (2030) … at National, Regional and International level for a sustainable future” ahlia.edu.bh. In practice, this has led Ahlia to emphasize Quality Education (SDG4), innovation, and equal opportunity in its operations, which complements the government’s emphasis on education and innovation in Vision 2030. The government of Bahrain recognizes Ahlia’s contributions: Ahlia was listed by the United Nations as a partner in achieving the SDGs 2030 ahlia.edu.bh, highlighting the university’s acknowledged role in the country’s sustainable development journey. Furthermore, Ahlia’s leadership often credits Bahrain’s government support and policy environment for enabling the university’s success. The Founding President, Prof. Abdulla Al-Hawaj, noted that without the “support, guidance, and assistance of His Majesty the King and the government ministries (including the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Council), Ahlia University would not have achieved [its] global position” ahlia.edu.bh. This sentiment underscores a public-private partnership approach in Bahrain’s education sector: Ahlia works hand-in-hand with national leadership to advance Vision 2030 goals, effectively acting as a bridge between academia and government policy implementation.

Times Higher Education Ranks Ahlia University First in Bahrain

ahlia.edu.bh

Ahlia University Achieves Multiple Successes and Paves Its Way Towards Global Recognition Prof. Al-Hawaj: We are proud to attract students who are seeking excellence and distinction The University Ranks 15th Globally in Education Quality

Ahlia University has achieved a high ranking in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. The University is ranked 101+ out of the best 1591 universities selected from different countries worldwide, which are the highest in impact and achievement of sustainable development goals. According to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Ahlia University was ranked first locally and fifteenth globally in education quality index.

 This achievement represents the value of responsibility that the University adopts towards the community. The University is committed to achieving specific standards for United Nations SDGs as part of its strategic plan, including education quality, gender equality, decent work, economic growth, reducing inequalities, and partnerships.

The World University Rankings (QS) has ranked Ahlia University 201-250 globally in the field of accounting and financial science based on the high academic reputation of the College of Business and Finance, the high satisfaction of stakeholders and institutions in the labor market with graduates, and advanced achievements in scientific research published by the University’s professors and students.

Locally, the University obtained institutional accreditation from the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and from the Education and Training Quality Authority for its commitment to quality assurance standards.

On this occasion, the Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Abdulla Al-Hawaj, emphasized that this great achievement is a source of pride and honor, and it is primarily attributed to the wise leadership. Without the support, sponsorship, guidance, and assistance of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, and the Prime Minister, and various government ministries and institutions, including the Ministry of Education and the Higher Education Council, Ahlia University would not have achieved this global position.

 

Al-Ahliya University hosts a forum on universities' efforts in achieving sustainable development goals.

Al-Hawaj: We have succeeded in incorporating 7 of the Sustainable Development Goals into our educational curricula.

https://alay.am/p/4czr

Officials, academics, and researchers emphasized the importance of universities and various private sector institutions participating in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They stressed the crucial role of education in addressing numerous emerging issues and challenges, provided that the education is of high quality and keeps pace with the rapidly evolving labor market.

Participants in the forum on the impact of higher education efforts on the SDGs called for leveraging the experience of education during the COVID-19 pandemic to enhance self-directed learning, research-based learning, analytical learning, and optimal investment in intellectual capital.

This came during the forum on the impact of higher education efforts on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, organized by the Ahlia University, with the participation of several universities, educational institutions, quality assurance bodies, international accreditation agencies, and representatives from students and employers.

The Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ahlia University, Professor Abdullah Al-Hawaj, inaugurated the forum and commended the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their positive impact on economic development, particularly in Bahrain. He noted that the esteemed government, under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, is striving to build a strong economy in line with Vision 2030, aiming to make the Kingdom of Bahrain, God willing, a nation of excellent services in education, health, tourism, and various other sectors.

Professor Al-Hawaj emphasized Ahlia University's commitment to integrating seven of the SDGs into its educational curricula and university activities, which has resulted in the university's inclusion among the United Nations' partners in achieving the SDGs. He stressed the importance of partnerships between universities and scientific institutions and the efforts of the United Nations in achieving the SDGs.

Also participating in the forum was Ms. Esmat Jaafar, Director of the National Qualifications Framework Operations Department at the Education and Training Quality Authority, who reviewed the role of the National Qualifications Framework in achieving the UN SDGs, focusing specifically on Goal 4: Quality Education.

She stated that the National Qualifications Framework comprises 10 integrated stages encompassing education in its various dimensions, phases, and institutions. She reviewed the efforts of the Education and Training Quality Authority in assisting higher education institutions to achieve quality education.

She noted that the National Framework focuses on the quality of educational institutions and their programs, and, more importantly, motivates educational institutions to respond optimally to labor market demands.

Dr. Amina Boualai, Head of the Scientific Research Department at the Higher Education Council, also participated in the forum, where she spoke about intellectual capital and its fundamental role in achieving high-quality higher education. She stated that intellectual capital is crucial for many students, institutions, countries, and sectors. She emphasized that focusing on intellectual capital creates better opportunities for universities, and stated that the reputation and standards of universities can be positively or negatively affected depending on the type of knowledge they identify, create, and provide to students. She added that intellectual capital has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, as students now have the option of university education or distance learning, which has altered the concept of intellectual capital due to changes in teaching and learning methods.

She emphasized the responsibility of academics to adopt teaching methods that keep pace with current and future changes and developments.

 Professor Allam Ahmed, President of the World Organization for Sustainable Development (WASD), also participated in the forum, stressing the crucial role of universities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. He emphasized that the success of leading nations in this area was due to the proactive approach of their universities. He stated that the role of universities does not end with graduating qualified individuals, but extends to helping them integrate into the labor market and become positive members of society, playing an active role in achieving positive change.

Professor Allam Ahmed reviewed the Egyptian experience in developing a sustainable development plan, noting that each country has its own specific circumstances regarding achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized that gender equality and providing quality education are among the most important priorities for sustainable development in the Arab region.

Also speaking at the forum was Professor Youssef Abdel Ghaffar, President of the Regional Network for Social Responsibility, who addressed the issue of unemployment in the Arab world and the role of education in tackling this problem by keeping pace with developments and emerging trends. Professor Abdel Ghaffar called for strengthening academic freedom and the independence of educational institutions, and for universities to engage with societal concerns in order to contribute positively to addressing them. While emphasizing the need to enhance the presence of practical training in university programs and curricula, he stressed the importance of fostering a spirit of partnership and cooperation among different universities, rather than competition.

Mr. Betty Lovi, an economist at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), discussed the impact of sustainable development initiatives undertaken by higher education institutions, emphasizing the importance of universities participating in raising community awareness about global challenges such as poverty, education, and the environment.

Lovi emphasized the United Nations' conviction that achieving sustainable development cannot be based solely on government efforts; it requires concerted efforts from society and all sectors. He discussed the four essential roles of higher education institutions in sustainable development: they must educate students about sustainable development and integrate it into their curricula; they must support research related to sustainable development; universities must engage with society, not only teaching but also applying knowledge; and universities must share knowledge with other universities. He stressed that sustainable development is inclusive, affecting both rich and poor countries, and that everyone can play a vital role in its implementation.

 

 

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships through Formal Agreements

To amplify its impact on SDGs, Ahlia University has entered into formal agreements and strategic partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations. These partnerships enable coordinated action on national development challenges and ensure Ahlia’s expertise is leveraged in policy implementation. For instance, Ahlia signed an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bahrain Institute for Political Development (BIPD) – a government-associated institute – with the aim of spreading national awareness and bolstering research and training in areas of political development and human rights. Under this MoU, “the Institute seeks to provide training and awareness programs targeting university students,” while Ahlia committed academic staff and resources to support the Institute’s initiatives in cultivating democratic principles and civic awareness among youth ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. This collaboration demonstrates Ahlia’s direct input into national capacity-building and policy education efforts, particularly aligned with SDG16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Another example is Ahlia’s partnership with the Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) in Bahrain: Ahlia “signed an official agreement with the RHF to automate and ease the process of providing financial aid to orphans”, thereby strengthening social support systems for vulnerable groups ahlia.edu.bh. By working with RHF (which operates under Bahrain’s royal and government patronage), Ahlia contributes to social welfare policies (SDG1 No Poverty and SDG10 Reduced Inequalities) through technical and academic support. Beyond government links, Ahlia also actively forges partnerships with international universities and industry as part of SDG17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The university has “distinguished partnerships with several prestigious international universities, including Brunel University London and George Washington University (USA)” ahlia.edu.bh. These agreements facilitate joint research, student exchanges, and capacity building programs that not only enhance Ahlia’s academic excellence but also contribute to Bahrain’s development by bringing global best practices to local challenges. In summary, through MoUs and strategic alliances, Ahlia University positions itself as a key partner to both government and other sectors, ensuring that its knowledge and innovations directly feed into policy actions and that there is a two-way exchange of expertise in pursuit of the SDGs.

A Mutual MoU between ’Bahrain Institute for Political Development’ and Ahlia University

ahlia.edu.bh

To Spread the National Awareness in Society

A Mutual MoU between ’Bahrain Institute for Political Development’ and Ahlia University

Based on the enhancement of collaboration, the Bahrain Institute for Political Development signed a mutual memorandum of understanding with Ahila University. This MoU aims to spread national awareness in society and support the academic aspects, scientific research, and the political awareness of the students at the university campus.

In signing the agreement, the Institute was represented by Ms. Eman Janahi, the Executive Director, while Ahlia University was represented by Prof. Mansoor Al-Aali, Ahlia University President.

On this occasion, Ms. Eman Janahi, Executive Director of the Bahrain Institute for Political Development praised this MoU, considering it a beneficial agreement to both parties. It will provide the University the academic staff to present the activities of the Institute and support the Institute’s efforts in raising awareness of the youths.’ Through this agreement, the Institute seeks to provide training and awareness-raising programs that target the University students.

Ms. Janahi added that the agreement comes in line with the Institute goals of disseminating a culture of democracy, supporting and consolidating the concept of democratic principles, providing training, studies and research programs related to the constitutional and legal field, in addition to its role in developing programs of human rights studies in the field of political systems and constitutional law.

For his part, Prof. Mansoor Al-Aali, the President of Ahlia University, affirmed that the Bahrain Institute for Political Development is one of the institutions emanating from the reform project of His Majesty the King just like Ahlia University. Both institutions share a set of goals related to enhancing community awareness and developing its staff. Also, both institutions work in the research field that aims to contribute positively to the development of society.

He explained that Ahlia University and the Institute can achieve a lot, which shed more light on the march of political and democratic development in the Kingdom of Bahrain through participation in conferences and discussion seminars to inform the community of the pioneering Bahraini model in the field of democratic transformation and the developments that gained the trust and respect of the international community.

According to the MoU, the two parties, to achieve their goals, will seek joint cooperation in the field of training and student capabilities development, and support the process of exchanging experiences between our national private and government institutions. Besides, exchanging experiences and studies depending on the available resources and providing consultations and developing programs and activities that fall within their competence, on condition that this does not contradict the laws and regulations binding on them.

Within the memorandum, Ahlia University expressed its readiness to support the Bahrain Institute for Political Development with specialized academic staff, while the Institute expressed its full readiness to cooperate in preparing training programs related to the rehabilitation of students expected to graduate from Ahlia University for the labor market in the areas of political participation of youth and promoting children’s rights and people with special needs.

 

Times Higher Education Ranks Ahlia University First in Bahrain

 

Ahlia University has achieved a high ranking in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. The University is ranked 101+ out of the best 1591 universities selected from different countries worldwide, which are the highest in impact and achievement of sustainable development goals. According to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Ahlia University was ranked first locally and fifteenth globally in education quality index.

This achievement represents the value of responsibility that the University adopts towards the community. The University is committed to achieving specific standards for United Nations SDGs as part of its strategic plan, including education quality, gender equality, decent work, economic growth, reducing inequalities, and partnerships.

The World University Rankings (QS) has ranked Ahlia University 201-250 globally in the field of accounting and financial science based on the high academic reputation of the College of Business and Finance, the high satisfaction of stakeholders and institutions in the labor market with graduates, and advanced achievements in scientific research published by the University’s professors and students.

Locally, the University obtained institutional accreditation from the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and from the Education and Training Quality Authority for its commitment to quality assurance standards.

On this occasion, the Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Abdulla Al-Hawaj, emphasized that this great achievement is a source of pride and honor, and it is primarily attributed to the wise leadership. Without the support, sponsorship, guidance, and assistance of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, and the Prime Minister, and various government ministries and institutions, including the Ministry of Education and the Higher Education Council, Ahlia University would not have achieved this global position.

 

Institutional Accreditation from HEC

Ahlia University’s President, Prof. Mansoor Alaali, congratulated the University’s members and partners on its achievement in the Times Higher Education ranking, noting that this annual ranking compares the performance of universities worldwide and measures their effectiveness in relation to the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, such as good education, decent work, economic growth, and reducing inequalities.

Moreover, the impact ranking shows the institution’s commitment to supporting the United Nations’ sustainable development goals in the fields of education, scientific research, and knowledge transfer, as well as its internal practices.

This achievement is a significant addition to the University’s accomplishments that has achieved in recent years, including obtaining institutional accreditation from the Higher Education Council and topping institutional and program quality lists according to reports issued by the Education and Training Quality Authority. Additionally, the University has distinguished partnerships with several prestigious international universities, including Brunel University London and George Washington University – USA.

Ahlia University conducts and implements world-class scientific research and builds strategic partnerships with prestigious universities and educational institutions worldwide.

 

Successful in International Student Exchange

The University has attracted groups of international students through its international student exchange program with a number of European universities. Additionally, the University has provided some of its interested students with the opportunity to study in UK and France for a semester or more, to enhance their academic and specialized capabilities in this field.

Moreover, the University has graduated many students from Ph.D. programmes. These programmes are offered in collaboration with Brunel University London and designed citizens, Gulf nationals, and residents who desire to complete their higher studies without traveling to the university’s headquarters in London. The University provides students with all necessary support, including experienced academic advisors and scholars from the world’s top universities, as well as research resources and massive databases available in the university’s library for all its students and members.

As a result, the students have been able to conduct studies at the highest scientific and research levels, which have been praised and appreciated by many experts and professionals at Brunel University London.

 

Ahlia University Graduates Occupy Top Leadership Positions

The University has graduated 17 cohorts, who have taken up high-level leadership positions in government and private sectors. Others have become successful entrepreneurs, creating job opportunities, and contributing to the economy. The graduates have showcased their creativity and innovation in various fields, including Amina Al-Hawaj, who has won several international awards for her inventions in physical therapy.

Ahlia University Founding President, Prof. Abdulla Al-Hawaj, aims to make the University one of the top 500 universities globally and one of the top five private universities in the region. The University sets continuously strategic plans to achieve the ambition and attract experienced scholars and professors from top universities worldwide. The University focuses on quality academic programs, research, teaching, and attracting elite students.

 

50% Scholarships for High Achievers, Orphans, and People with Disabilities

The University offers partial scholarships to its high-achieving, outstanding, and creative students, as well as orphans and people with disabilities. The University also allows all its students to benefit from partial scholarships for those who achieve advanced grades during their university studies.

Ahlia University President, Prof. Mansoor Alaali, emphasizes the University’s intention to offer new distinguished programmes that align with the requirements of the labour market, and to continue its efforts in publsihing scientific research papers and conduct research that serves Bahrain, and employ the latest teaching and learning methods to produce distinguished, creative, and productive graduates.

 

Distinguished Programmes Meet the Labour Market Requirements

Prof. Alaali notes that Higher Education Council’s efforts have a significant impact on coordinating the programmes offered by higher education institutions, providing graduates with a competitive edge and diversity that helps them enter the labour market, create new jobs, and provide solutions to the issue of offering similar programmes by higher education institutions.

Ahlia University is the first private university in Bahrain, with around 2,000 students enrolled in its four colleges: the College of Information Technology, the College of Business and Finance, the College of Arts and Science, and the College of Engineering. The University has aimed to provide a high-quality education since its establishment, enhancing Bahrain’s pioneering role in higher education.

 

Role as a Key Partner in the Education Sector and Sustainable Development

Ahlia University is recognized as a success partner in Bahrain’s educational and sustainable development sectors, working alongside government agencies and other institutions to achieve SDG targets. Being the first private university licensed by the Bahraini government, Ahlia has a long-standing collaborative relationship in shaping higher education to meet national needs ahlia.edu.bh. The university contributes to national SDG monitoring and adaptive management by voluntarily reporting its SDG progress and sharing best practices. Each year, Ahlia monitors key SDG initiatives and publishes progress reports through platforms like the UN Higher Education Sustainability Initiative, thereby supporting national reporting and accountability for SDGs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. This transparent reporting allows stakeholders, including government planners, to gauge what interventions are working and adapt strategies accordingly – a cornerstone of adaptive management. Internally, Ahlia evaluates its Sustainable Development Plan annually and uses the findings to inform decision-making at the senior management level sdgs.un.org, exemplifying how it practices adaptive management in governance and can advise others to do the same. Moreover, Ahlia frequently engages with national bodies in educational initiatives; for example, its President, Prof. Mansoor Alaali, has served on the Bahrain National Qualifications Framework committee and other public roles, ensuring alignment between academic outcomes and national development frameworks sdgsuniversities.org. The university’s contributions to quality education (SDG4) have been lauded as it “supports national strategies as a progressive and model organization” in areas like gender equity and inclusive education ahlia.edu.bh. In partnership with the Higher Education Council and Ministry of Education, Ahlia has improved program quality and accessibility (e.g. special scholarships for frontline workers and students with special needs) in line with national priorities ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. Such initiatives illustrate how Ahlia acts as a model institution whose policies and successes are leveraged at the national level to drive broader SDG progress in the education sector. Indeed, Bahrain’s government sees universities like Ahlia as essential partners – Ahlia’s global achievements in sustainable education were made possible through public support, and in turn, Ahlia produces graduates, research, and social programs that feed into national development goals ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. In essence, Ahlia University functions as a critical node in Bahrain’s SDG ecosystem: aligning with government vision, contributing expertise and research for policy formulation, implementing and modeling sustainable practices, and collaborating across sectors to achieve the 2030 Agenda.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

As part of Ahlia University’s vision and mission, our aim is to produce top level graduates through high quality teaching. AU has formed a Centre for Accreditation and Quality Assurance (CAQA) to fulfil the mission, vision, and goals of AU towards achieving excellence in the quality of our student learning, teaching and research. In anticipation, the Centre strives to ensure that the education offered by AU meets national and international standards through a policy of continuous improvement.

The CAQA was formed with the responsibility of planning, developing, implementing, and managing quality assurance standards across AU. It is also responsible for assuring the implementation of all the necessary plans and policies to meet the requirements for accreditation of the programmes of AU. CAQA works closely in cooperation with all other existing Centres and Committees of AU, one of which is Accreditation and Quality Assurance Committee (AQAC) and Teaching, Learning and Assessment Committee (TLAC).

The CAQA has established an Internal Quality Management System that insures quality assurance standards are being applied across the University in all the academic and administrative operations. The Internal Quality Management System has enabled AU to fulfil its vision and mission and is measured by the satisfaction rate of the identified stakeholder’s such as alumni, students and employers of AU Graduates as well the number of students employed in the national market.

With the high level of support given to the quality assurance operations at AU, the CAQA team works to ensure the programmes are up-to-date and are of the highest academic standards. The implementation of policies and procedures includes feedback obtained from stakeholders such as external advisory board members alongside conducting market need analysis.

 

Program Quality Reviews & Validation

Ahlia University has performed commendably vis-à-vis review outcomes within the context of Academic Programme Reviews conducted by the independent Bahrain Education & Training Quality Authority. To date, the University has undergone reviews a number of academic programmes on offer.

In our pursuit of high-quality academic provision. through alignment to international standards, and compliance with the National Qualifications Framework, Ahlia University has successfully achieved institutional listing as one of the first HEIs in Bahrain.

Achieving institutional listing has enabled the university to submit its programmes for validation through a process of external scrutiny by an NQF validation panel, and a validation (site visit) event, under the oversight of the General Directorate of National Qualifications Framework (GDQ).

In doing so, Ahlia University is proud to have the highest number of NQF validated programmes among private HEIs in Bahrain, with 11 National Qualifications/ programmes successfully placed on the national qualifications register and 3 cross boarder qualifications aligned to Bahrain qualification register which include 2 at level 10/PhD Level.

For an overview of all successfully validated / aligned AU programmes, with the publishing year, and NQF placement reference. All placement results are published on the website of the Bahrain Education & Training Quality Authority.

Initial Placement

International Ranking & Reputation​

In line with the University’s strategic plan, and as articulated by objective 4 “Sustain and institutionalise quality management, accreditation and ranking standards across all operations” Ahlia University has managed to achieve and sustain number of institutional milestones which have manifested in its international standing in league tables and powerful brand.

Voluntary Reporting of AU’s Commitment

Ahlia University is committed to knowledge sharing therefore, AU reports annually the major achievements against UNSDGs and share it voluntary through United Nations Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) Platform. The platform includes progress tracking on the committed actions which includes integration of UNSDGs in the curriculum to support UNSDG4. For more information please see: UN HESI – Platform Commitment Ahlia University Sustainability Initiative | Department of Economic and Social Affairs

 

Ahlia University Sustainability Initiative

Implementation of the Project/Activity

Ahlia University (AU) aligned the UNSDGs initiatives as part of it strategies, a University Sustainable Development Plan (2021-2025) was developed and approved with clear set of initiatives to contribute to the overall UNSDGs with prioritized measures. In the next 5 years AU is committed to increase the number of publications in specific areas including gender equality, quality education and sustainable growth. AU is also committed to revise the structure of the curriculum to include higher percentage of critical long term sustainable thinking skills with social responsibility across all fields. AU aims to produce society ready graduates equipped with social responsibility and life-long learning skills to support managing global growth and sustainability. In order to assure effective implementation of the planned initiatives within the Sustainable Development Plan (2021-2025) the plan will be evaluated by Centre for Accreditation and Quality Assurance and reported to the University senior management for decision making. The actions will be measures the contribution in increasing number of research in relation to sustainable growth, contribution in various out-reach activities considering social responsibility and promoting life-long learning skills.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ahlia University plays a direct and multifaceted role in Bahrain’s SDG policy development and implementation. It has aligned its strategies and governance to embrace the SDGs, ensuring its educational mission supports sustainable development. The university actively contributes to global well-being through research and innovation, often in collaboration with government ministries and NGOs, thereby informing the identification of problems and crafting of solutions. Ahlia’s work is in sync with the Government’s Vision 2030, and it continuously demonstrates this alignment by focusing on national priority areas and contributing to policy discussions. Through formal agreements and strategic partnerships, the university strengthens cross-sector collaborations, acting as a “success partner” in both the educational sphere and wider sustainable development initiatives. It participates in monitoring and reporting progress on SDGs and embraces adaptive management by adjusting its strategies and advising on policy refinements as needed. All these efforts underline that Ahlia University, as an institution, has a comprehensive and direct input into national SDG policy development in Bahrain, from problem identification and policy formulation to implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh. Such an integrated approach ensures that the university’s resources and expertise substantially advance Bahrain’s progress toward the UN 2030 Agenda and the country’s own development vision.