1. Formal institutional response

Yes. Ahlia University delivers a programmed portfolio of health and well-being outreach in Bahrain, reinforced by complementary ad hoc campaigns and events. The programme is governed through the Community Engagement Plan 2021–2025 and the University’s strategic commitment to social responsibility; implemented through academic programmes, student volunteering and institutional units; and connected to local health centres, hospitals, community organisations, schools, families and businesses. In 2024, the model addressed community rehabilitation, nutrition and diabetes prevention, psychological well-being, disability inclusion, safe water and hygiene awareness, physical activity and healthy lifestyles. [E2] · [E3] · [E4] · [E5] · [E7] · [E8] · [E10] · [E12] · [E13]

The reporting-year evidence demonstrates a sustained institutional system. Ahlia’s 2024 physiotherapy specification embeds external clinical and community practice in medical health centres; the November 2024 Sugar-Free exhibition promoted nutrition and diabetes prevention to families and the broader community; and the September 2024 disability-inclusion forum brought public, academic and specialist stakeholders together beyond the campus. Independent United Nations reporting in August 2024 also confirmed Ahlia as one of Bahrain’s WHO-recognised Health-Promoting Universities, a framework that explicitly covers the wider community and community participation. [E5] · [E7] · [E8] · [E9] · [E11]

Ahlia University Community Engagement Plan (2021–2025)

This plan, like the one before it, is underpinned by AU’s vision: the university strives to make a positive contribution to the development of the Bahraini community and the wider Gulf region through its three core functions—Teaching and Learning, Research, and Community Engagement. AU’s Community Engagement Plan 2021–2025 continues and strengthens its Community EMPOWER Plan 2016–2020. A review and revision were deemed necessary as AU's new strategic plan came into effect in 2021. The Plan draws from national and international strategies to maintain high-quality academic standards in Community Engagement and Social Responsibility.

Community Engagement Plan Aims

• Enforce social responsibility and serve the local and regional community.

• Encourage and enhance participative community-based research supporting social and economic development.

• Strengthen the university's community relationships through cooperation and planned extension programs and services.

• Provide budding entrepreneurs with skills, knowledge, and mentoring support to translate ideas into viable businesses.

Initiative 1

Support and encourage students in a culture of engagement, entrepreneurship, and innovation, and prepare them through mentoring and partnerships to become leaders in their chosen professions.

• Create a culture of awareness about the importance of entrepreneurship for economic growth at the university and the wider community.

• Provide experiential learning, conduct meaningful entrepreneurial research, and connect students with mentors and resources for successful startups.

• Offer entrepreneurship-related courses to educate, coach, and encourage young entrepreneurs.

• Link academic life with the business world through training, incubation, research, and consultation.

• Partner with local and regional industries, including SMEs, to support budding entrepreneurs.

• Conduct events, seminars, lectures, and conferences to promote entrepreneurship institution-wide.

University & Community

Annual Report 2018–19

Ahlia University strives for excellence in all aspects of its community engagement activities. In 2018/19, AU created a Community Engagement Unit to enhance management, monitoring, and reporting, maximizing the impact across all stakeholders. Collaboration among colleges, deanships, and directorates supports the implementation of the plan, aiming to contribute to the community's development and prosperity.

Community Engagement at AU involves students, faculty, staff, alumni, and organizations exchanging information, resources, and referrals for service and learning opportunities. Community engagement is a core university function, integral to the Strategic Plan and Community Empowerment Plan, focusing on both internal and external communities.

• Offering programs that meet the needs of students and employers in Bahrain.

• Supporting good causes and promoting volunteering, civic duty, and global citizenship.

• Making high-quality education accessible through scholarships, grants, and tuition remission schemes.

• Focusing research on societal needs and challenges.

In 2018/19, AU organized and participated in 90 community engagement activities, averaging over two activities per week during the academic year.

Social Responsibility

Learn more about AU's Social Responsibility

We promote active participation in social change through volunteerism, leadership, and civic action involving faculty, staff, and students. AU commits to contributing to societal growth by supporting worthy causes, advancing welfare through research, and preparing professionals for leadership in their fields and communities.

Community Engagement

Sustainability in Connectivity

AU’s students, faculty, and staff are deeply connected with their communities. Community engagement activities reflect AU's decentralized structure. The Deanship of Student Affairs supports campus life and student engagement initiatives. Collaboration among colleges, departments, and the student council connects students to resources that broaden their perspectives on ethical and social issues.

One of AU’s core values essential to achieving its vision is Social Responsibility. The university promotes participation in social change, leadership, and civic action, supporting research that advances human welfare, and preparing students for professional and community leadership roles.

Community EMPOWER Plan

AN-Issue37.pdf

AU’s Community EMPOWER Plan 2016–2020 responds to Bahrain's social and economic challenges. The plan emphasizes Entrepreneurship, Mentoring, Partnerships, Outreach, Widening Access, Lifelong Learning, and Expertise Sharing through Research. AU fosters positive, mutually beneficial relationships with businesses, industries, governments, and civic organizations to create fulfilling and prosperous opportunities for all involved.

Programme Specification

Ahlia University Hosts “Sugar-Free” Exhibition to Promote Healthy Nutrition and Diabetes Awareness

As part of its commitment to public health and community awareness, Ahlia University inaugurated the “Sugar-Free” Exhibition in celebration of World Diabetes Day. The event was organized by the College of business and Finance in collaboration with the Center for Entrepreneurship. It was inaugurated by Professor Abdulla Al Hawaj, Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, alongside the University’s President, Professor Mansoor Alali.

Professor Al Hawaj emphasized that raising nutritional awareness is key to preventing chronic illnesses like diabetes, which has become a global health challenge. He stated, “Through this initiative, we aim to highlight the importance of proper nutrition as an effective method for preventing diabetes and other chronic diseases. Our goal is to educate our students, empowering them to raise awareness within their families and the broader community, ultimately promoting healthier lifestyle choices.”

A Showcase of Healthy Bahraini Entrepreneurship

Held in the university’s second-floor food hall, the exhibition featured a wide variety of locally produced healthy food items. These ranged from sugar-free pastries and desserts to wholesome meals, salads, granola, and nutritious snacks. The event also showcased innovative culinary offerings from small and home-based Bahraini businesses, underscoring Ahlia University’s dedication to supporting local entrepreneurs and providing the community with affordable, healthy food alternatives.

University’s Vision for Better Health

Professor Mansoor Alali explained that the exhibition aligns with Ahlia University’s strategic vision to enhance public health within its community. He noted, “Healthy nutrition is an essential component of quality living, and initiatives like this contribute significantly to raising awareness about adopting healthier lifestyles.”

Innovative Products and Strong Community Engagement

Professor Allam Hamdan, Dean of the College of Business and Finance, highlighted the event’s dual purpose: showcasing products and spreading awareness about the importance of healthy dietary choices. He commended the creativity of the participating entrepreneurs, whose innovative products reflect Bahrain’s entrepreneurial spirit.

The “Sugar-Free” Exhibition not only raised awareness about the benefits of healthy eating but also supported sustainable development goals related to health and small business development. It is part of a broader series of events organized by Ahlia University to foster a healthier, more informed community while reinforcing Bahrain’s role as a leader in social and entrepreneurial innovation.

The Second Forum on the Inclusion of Students with Disabilities in Higher Education

The Counseling Department at the Deanship of Student Affairs at Ahlia University organized the Second Forum on the Inclusion of Students with Disabilities in Higher Education on September 25, 2024, at the Al Batel Hall, Wyndham Hotel. The forum was attended by H.E. Mr. Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, along with a distinguished group of academics, specialists, and individuals interested in inclusive education.

The forum aimed to highlight the importance of integrating students with disabilities into higher education institutions and to showcase best practices and successful experiences that contribute to creating an inclusive educational environment that ensures equal opportunities for all students.

The forum featured a number of presentations and panel discussions that addressed the challenges and opportunities associated with the inclusion of students with disabilities, in addition to reviewing the services and facilities provided to support them in higher education institutions. These efforts contribute to enhancing their academic and social participation and support the achievement of sustainable development goals.

The organization of this forum reflects Ahlia University’s commitment to promoting the principles of inclusiveness and educational equity, as well as strengthening its community role in empowering all segments of society through equal access to educational opportunities.

In Cooperation with Silwan Psychiatric Hospital Ahlia Provides Psychological Support for Students with Special Needs

In a collaborative effort between Ahlia University and Silwan Psychiatric Hospital, the University hosted a lecture by psychiatry consultant Dr. Amani Al-Sabbagh, aimed at improving support for students with special needs.

The lecture, organised by Student Counselling Directorate, covered a range of topics related to special needs, including fear, forgetfulness, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and physical disabilities. Dr. Al-Sabbagh emphasised the importance of fostering positive psychological attitudes, facilitating social interaction, and encouraging community participation for these students. “It’s crucial that we create an environment that is understanding and empathetic towards the needs of students with special needs,” said Dr. Al-Sabbagh. “By identifying and addressing their mental health challenges, we can better support them in reaching their full potential.”

The University’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its various support initiatives. Students with special needs, as well as orphans, outstanding students, and creative students, are offered partial scholarships covering 50% of their tuition fees. “Our goal is to ensure that all students, regardless of their unique circumstances, have the opportunity to excel in their academic pursuits,” said Ms. Rasha Al-Najdi, Director of Counselling at Ahlia University. “We work closely with these students to help them unlock their talents and succeed throughout their studies.”

The lecture was well-received by the academic and administrative staff in attendance, who expressed a renewed understanding of the importance of providing comprehensive support for students with special needs.

PRESERVE THE WATER FOR FUTURE

Inspiring Change: Ahlia University a Beacon of Special Needs Integration in HEIs Alaali Advocates for Sharing Successful Practices in Universities

Professor Mansoor Alaali, President of Ahlia University, emphasized the need for greater focus on research and academic attention to issues faced by individuals with determination. He highlighted the importance of evaluating the integration in universities and sharing successful practices to improve the educational landscape.

During a forum on the integration of students with determination into higher education institutions, held under the patronage of Mr. Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Chairman of the House of Representatives, several recommendations were made. Key suggestions included increasing governmental and community support for institutions that assist individuals with determination, establishing supportive legislative frameworks, and creating specialized training programs tailored for these individuals, particularly in suitable fields such as administration, organization, reception, support roles, and public relations.

The forum also called for improving transportation and traffic systems in line with international standards for individuals with determination. It aimed to empower these individuals with tools like artificial intelligence, increase community initiatives, and develop clear strategies for training educators to effectively support students with disabilities, ensuring ongoing communication between academic institutions and organizations.

A presentation by Ms. Lulwa Ali Al-Rumaihi, Member of Parliament, highlighted the legislative and oversight efforts of the Parliament to protect the rights of individuals with determination. She underscored the Parliament’s role in enhancing these rights across various sectors, including health services, youth and sports, training, and employment.

Discussions revealed significant challenges faced by students with determination in universities, such as accessibility to buildings and facilities, social integration difficulties, limited access to assistive technologies, and financial constraints. Addressing these issues requires effective strategies for integration and comprehensive academic and financial support.

Ms. Shatha Al-Qasimi, HR Supervisor at the National Bank of Bahrain and a graduate of Ahlia University, shared the bank’s successful experience in integrating individuals with determination into its workforce in partnership with the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society. This initiative began with a specially prepared training room and followed a two-phase approach: obtaining necessary approvals and then moving to practical employment and on-the-job training. This effort led to notable success, with the number of employees with Down Syndrome at the bank increasing from three in 2018 to five in 2019.

Dr. Fatima Al-Dhaen, Assistant Professor at Ahlia University, discussed the role of artificial intelligence in helping students with determination pursue higher education. She emphasized how tools like “ChatGPT” can assist these individuals in reading by converting text to audio, simplifying complex language, and aiding in writing and grammar. Such technologies can also make difficult subjects more understandable by breaking them down into simpler terms or providing summaries.

WHO Bahrain: Scaling Up the Healthy Cities and Health-Promoting University Initiatives in Bahrain

Classification and evidence chain

THE alignment. The current methodology identifies 2024 as the evidence year and defines this indicator around programmes and projects delivered in the local community—including student volunteering—to improve or promote health and well-being. Ahlia’s evidence combines an active institutional programme with dated reporting-year delivery and publicly accessible documentation. [E1]

2. Programmed institutional framework

Community Engagement Plan 2021–2025

The Community Engagement Plan 2021–2025 was in force throughout the 2024 evidence year. It positions community engagement alongside teaching and learning and research as a core function of Ahlia University. Its stated aims include serving the local and regional community, strengthening community relationships through cooperation and planned extension programmes and services, and encouraging participative community-based research. Delivery involves students, faculty, staff, alumni and external organisations exchanging information, resources and referrals for service and learning opportunities. [E2] · [E3]

Strategic Goal 4: Social Responsibility and Community Engagement

Ahlia’s 2024 public strategic-goals summary establishes community engagement as a university-level commitment. Strategic Goal 4 requires the University to expand and nurture relationships with the local and regional community and to promote citizenship and social responsibility towards positive societal impact. The same summary reports more than 200 community-engagement events, 16 partnership agreements with national and regional professional bodies, and 91 graduates with special needs, demonstrating institutional scale and inclusive reach. [E4]

Figure 1. Ahlia University’s published Strategic Goal 4: Social Responsibility and Community Engagement. [E4]

3. Whole-university health-promotion governance

WHO Health-Promoting University framework

Ahlia University’s health outreach is reinforced by its designation as a WHO Health-Promoting University. Ahlia’s public evidence records the 2023 designation following a WHO assessment and field visit. Independent United Nations reporting published on 21 August 2024 continued to identify Ahlia among the five Bahraini universities holding the distinction. [E2] · [E11]

The WHO programme is derived from the Healthy Cities model and addresses the social determinants of health in academic settings. Its purpose extends to students, staff and the wider community. Universities undertake self-assessment across six domains, including healthy lifestyles, emergency preparedness and response, and community participation and sustainability; a joint WHO regional and country team conducts an external evaluation, and designated institutions are re-evaluated every three years. This framework places Ahlia’s outreach within a continuing cycle of implementation, assessment and renewal. [E11]

Programme governance translated into community delivery

The ‘A’ Activity Credit gives undergraduate students a one-credit-hour A grade for qualifying co-curricular participation, explicitly including volunteer work, community engagement, sports, events, workshops, seminars and conferences. It therefore makes volunteering a recognised component of the student experience rather than an occasional informal activity. [E2]

Ahlia University Designated as a WHO Health-Promoting University

Figure 1: The WHO joint regional and country evaluation team visits Ahlia University to evaluate its eligibility for Health-Promoting University status. Photo credit: WHO Bahrain

In April 2023, Ahlia University was officially designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of Bahrain’s pioneering Health-Promoting Universities, under the patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant-General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council of Health. The ceremony was held in the presence of H.E. Dr. Jaleela bint AlSayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health in Bahrain; H.E. Dr. Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Duaij Al-Khalifa, Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council; and Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean [8].

Ahlia University’s designation followed a comprehensive WHO assessment and field visit, in which international experts evaluated institutional practices based on global standards to determine eligibility for Health-Promoting University status. Alongside Ahlia University, the institutions recognized included Arabian Gulf University, Kingdom University, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Medical University of Bahrain, and the University of Technology Bahrain.

This distinction reflects Ahlia University’s deep commitment to fostering a health-conducive academic environment that promotes the physical, mental, and social well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. The recognition also highlights Ahlia University’s ongoing efforts to support sustainable development through health awareness, prevention initiatives, and multisectoral collaboration.

During the award ceremony, Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, emphasized Bahrain’s regional leadership in advancing the Healthy Universities Programme:

“By developing the WHO Healthy Universities Programme, the leadership in Bahrain continues to show commitment, not only in adding value across national settings, but in advancing sustainable development across regional and global environments as well… Together, we hold the potential to influence sustainable opportunities to advance Health For All By All.”

H.E. Dr. Jaleela bint AlSayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health in Bahrain, commended the recognized universities, noting that this milestone represents the culmination of joint efforts between the Ministry of Health and the WHO Country Office in Bahrain to implement collaborative health and development projects across the Kingdom’s higher education institutions.

Dr. Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative in Bahrain, also highlighted the important role of higher education in improving public health outcomes:

“Higher education has long played a catalyst role in improving the health of populations… Guided by Bahrain’s visionary leadership, the advancement of the WHO Healthy Universities Programme brings us one step closer to realizing the WHO Triple Billion Goal 3: one billion people enjoying better health and well-being.”

The WHO Health-Promoting Universities Programme is based on the Healthy Cities framework and adopts a settings-based approach to health promotion, recognizing universities as vital contributors to sustainable development. Through this initiative, Ahlia University joins the global network of Healthy Universities, reinforcing its strategic mission to advance health, well-being, and sustainable development at the local, regional, and global levels [9].

The ‘A’ Activity Credit

Ahlia University appreciates the value of co-curricular activities in developing a range of skills and attributes that plays an important role in molding student’s personality and building confidence and self-esteem. Undergraduate students participating in co-curricular activities are awarded an ’A’ credit to encourage them in participation beyond the classroom [7]. The ‘A’ activity credit is a one credit hour with ’A’ grade awarded to students in reference to their participation in a wide variety of activities outside of the regular classroom. The ’A’ activity credit is awarded to students in reference to a wide variety of extracurricular activities that include but not limited to:

1. Demonstrating an active role in university student clubs, scientific student associations and student council.

2. Participation in university sport activities and competitions.

3. Organizing/participating in university events.

4. Attending workshops, seminars and conferences approved by the college or Deanship of student affairs.

5. Volunteer work and Community Engagement

6. Involvement in cultural activities.

7. Peer tutoring sessions.

4. Curriculum-embedded community health outreach

Clinical Community Physiotherapy in external medical health centres

Ahlia’s Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy provides the strongest evidence of recurring health outreach beyond campus. The programme specification revised on 25 June 2024 states that practical learning takes place both in University laboratories and in external medical health centres. The curriculum includes Year 3 and Year 4 clinical practice in orthopaedic, sports and rheumatology physiotherapy, cardiopulmonary care, paediatrics and community physiotherapy. [E5] · [E6]

Year 4 course PHTH424, Clinical: Community Physiotherapy, carries six practical hours in clinical medical health centres. Additional Year 4 placements include eight practical hours in clinical orthopaedic, sports and rheumatology physiotherapy and eight practical hours in clinical paediatric physiotherapy. The programme’s learning outcomes require communication with clients, carers and the public and coordination with health professionals and industry partners. This creates a programmed route through which supervised student learning supports local health settings and community well-being. [E5]

Figure 2. Reporting-year programme specification: PHTH424 Clinical Community Physiotherapy and related Year 4 clinical activity in external medical health centres. [E5]

Health themes embedded in clinical delivery

5. 2024 nutrition and diabetes-prevention outreach

Sugar-Free Exhibition — 17 November 2024

For World Diabetes Day, the College of Business and Finance and the Ahlia Centre for Entrepreneurship organised the Sugar-Free Exhibition as a public-health and community-awareness initiative. The event focused on nutrition as a means of preventing diabetes and other chronic diseases. Ahlia’s Founding President described the intended multiplier effect: students would carry the knowledge into their families and the broader community, promoting healthier lifestyle choices. [E7]

The exhibition connected health education with the local economy. Small and home-based Bahraini businesses presented affordable sugar-free and nutritious foods, including meals, salads, snacks, granola and desserts. This gave participants practical exposure to healthier alternatives while supporting local entrepreneurs. Ahlia’s published account states that the exhibition formed part of a broader series of University events intended to create a healthier, better-informed community. [E7]

Figure 3. Ahlia University’s 2024 Sugar-Free Exhibition connected diabetes prevention, healthy food choices and Bahraini community enterprises. [E7]

Community outcomes

• Improved awareness of the relationship between diet, diabetes and chronic-disease prevention. [E7]

• Practical visibility for affordable, locally produced healthy food alternatives. [E7]

• A student-to-family-to-community pathway for extending health messages beyond the campus. [E7]

• A cross-college model linking health promotion, entrepreneurship and community participation. [E7]

6. Outreach for inclusion, mental health and disadvantaged groups

Second Forum on Inclusion of Students with Disabilities — 25 September 2024

The Counselling Department at the Deanship of Student Affairs organised the Second Forum on the Inclusion of Students with Disabilities in Higher Education at Wyndham Hotel’s Al Batel Hall. The off-campus forum was attended by the Speaker of Bahrain’s Council of Representatives and a wider group of academics, specialists and interested community members. Presentations and panel discussions examined barriers, services, facilities, social participation and successful practices for people with disabilities. [E8] · [E9]

The forum’s community recommendations extended across health services, youth and sport, training, employment, transport, assistive technology, governmental and community support, and continuing communication between academic institutions and organisations. The programme also shared a National Bank of Bahrain and Bahrain Down Syndrome Society employment experience. This event directly addressed the well-being and participation of a disadvantaged group through public, academic, governmental and civil-society dialogue. [E9]

Inspiring Change: Ahlia University a Beacon of Special Needs Integration in HEIs Alaali Advocates for Sharing Successful Practices in Universities

Professor Mansoor Alaali, President of Ahlia University, emphasized the need for greater focus on research and academic attention to issues faced by individuals with determination. He highlighted the importance of evaluating the integration in universities and sharing successful practices to improve the educational landscape.

During a forum on the integration of students with determination into higher education institutions, held under the patronage of Mr. Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Chairman of the House of Representatives, several recommendations were made. Key suggestions included increasing governmental and community support for institutions that assist individuals with determination, establishing supportive legislative frameworks, and creating specialized training programs tailored for these individuals, particularly in suitable fields such as administration, organization, reception, support roles, and public relations.

The forum also called for improving transportation and traffic systems in line with international standards for individuals with determination. It aimed to empower these individuals with tools like artificial intelligence, increase community initiatives, and develop clear strategies for training educators to effectively support students with disabilities, ensuring ongoing communication between academic institutions and organizations.

Silwan Psychiatric Hospital collaboration — 8 May 2024

Ahlia University and Silwan Psychiatric Hospital delivered a specialist session led by consultant psychiatrist Dr Amani Al-Sabbagh. The session addressed fear, forgetfulness, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and physical disability, with particular attention to positive psychological attitudes, social interaction and community participation for students with special needs. By building the capacity of academic and administrative staff, the activity strengthened the University’s continuing ability to support a priority group and to connect clinical expertise with inclusive education and well-being. [E10]

In Cooperation with Silwan Psychiatric Hospital Ahlia Provides Psychological Support for Students with Special Needs

In a collaborative effort between Ahlia University and Silwan Psychiatric Hospital, the University hosted a lecture by psychiatry consultant Dr. Amani Al-Sabbagh, aimed at improving support for students with special needs.

The lecture, organised by Student Counselling Directorate, covered a range of topics related to special needs, including fear, forgetfulness, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and physical disabilities. Dr. Al-Sabbagh emphasised the importance of fostering positive psychological attitudes, facilitating social interaction, and encouraging community participation for these students. “It’s crucial that we create an environment that is understanding and empathetic towards the needs of students with special needs,” said Dr. Al-Sabbagh. “By identifying and addressing their mental health challenges, we can better support them in reaching their full potential.”

The University’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its various support initiatives. Students with special needs, as well as orphans, outstanding students, and creative students, are offered partial scholarships covering 50% of their tuition fees. “Our goal is to ensure that all students, regardless of their unique circumstances, have the opportunity to excel in their academic pursuits,” said Ms. Rasha Al-Najdi, Director of Counselling at Ahlia University. “We work closely with these students to help them unlock their talents and succeed throughout their studies.”

The lecture was well-received by the academic and administrative staff in attendance, who expressed a renewed understanding of the importance of providing comprehensive support for students with special needs.

Formal community partnership

The University’s memorandum of understanding with the Bahraini Association for Parents and Friends of the Disabled provides a continuing foundation for joint initiatives, mutual participation and support for people with disabilities. It complements the 2024 forum and specialist mental-health education with a formal community relationship. [E22]

Ahlia University Signs an MoU with the Bahraini Association for Parents of the Disabled

The President of Ahlia University, Professor Mansour Al-Aali, noted that disabled people receive special care and attention the academic and administrative bodies of the university. They also receive partial scholarships of 50% of the tuition fees, which is what made Ahlia university the most attractive among universities to this segment of society.

prof. Al-Aali praised the campaign launched by the Bahraini Association for Parents of the Disabled, which included collecting and recycling of plastics to benefit from its revenue in providing special chairs for the disabled.

For his part, the President of the Bahraini Association for Parents and Friends of the Disabled affirmed his pride in the prestigious status of Ahlia University and the role played by the university in supporting and assisting the disabled and their families, noting the successes achieved by the university in graduating dozens of students with disabilities in the past years, expressing the association’s desire for more cooperation with the university.

Ahlia University signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bahraini Association for Parents and Friends of the Disabled, with the aim of achieving fruitful cooperation between them on the basis of mutual benefit and common interests, in accordance with the laws and regulations in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Ahlia University was represented by the President of the University, Professor Mansour Al-Aali, and the Bahraini Society for Parents and Friends of the Disabled was represented by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Jassim Muhammad Siyadi.

This agreement comes within the framework of both parties’ desire to activate the role of cooperation between them, and bilateral cooperation in the field of supporting students with disabilities, that is through exchanging invitations to participate and attend events held by the two parties, and the university provided support for the activities of the Bahraini Association for Parents of the Disabled and their friends by collecting plastic materials in all University facilities and presenting them to the association for recycling in order to contribute to the purchase of the largest possible number of wheelchairs for specific cases of people with disabilities, in addition to organizing joint activities aimed at enhancing the opportunities of enabling students with disabilities from completing their university education.

7. Breadth of health and well-being themes

Ahlia University’s outreach portfolio uses several channels: community clinical practice, public awareness events, student volunteering, targeted forums, school visits, open educational materials and partnerships with health and community organisations. Together, these channels address health across the life course.

Diabetes Awareness

https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/diabetes-awareness/ [10]

In collaboration with Bahrain Health City, the Director of Student Services & Activities is organizing the “ Diabetes Awareness”, on Sunday 19th of November 2023 from 11:00 am till 02:00 pm at the Food Court.

The program will include the following activities:

• Free medical tests (weight, blood sugar, BMI)

• Consultation with a dental specialist.

• Consultation with a nutritionist.

• Consultation with Audiologist and speech pathologist.

Stay Healthy

https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/stay-healthy/ [11]

The Student Services and Activities Department, in collaboration with Bahrain Medical City, is organizing a comprehensive health education day for the staff and students of Ahlia University. on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 10:00 AM in the mezzanine. This event aims to promote health awareness and provide valuable medical services to enhance the well-being of the university community.

During this event, doctors and specialists from Bahrain Medical City will be present on campus. They will offer medical consultations and examinations to students and staff.

The program will include the following activities:

• Free medical tests (weight, blood sugar, BMI)

• Consultation with a dental specialist.

• Consultation with a nutritionist.

Think Pink

In collaboration with Al-Kindi Hospital, the Director of Student Services & Activities, it was organized the ’Think Pink’ Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign at the theater hall. The aim of this event was to support the effort in raising breast cancer awareness, education, and care [12].

The program was included in the following activities:

• Awareness Lecture.

• Free medical tests (weight, blood sugar, BMI)

• Consultation with a nutritionist

TOGETHER S.A.F.E” CAMPAIGN

The event was an opportunity for the team to promote their campaign outside of the university and to convey their message of love, peace and social tolerance to the whole community [13].

Marathon (Sport Event)

As part of its continuous efforts to promote physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and community engagement, Ahlia University organized the Ahlia University Community Marathon, a large-scale sporting event open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the wider Bahraini community.

The marathon aimed to raise awareness about the importance of regular exercise, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being, while strengthening the bond between the University and society. Participants of all ages were encouraged to take part, reflecting Ahlia University’s inclusive approach to health promotion and social participation.

In addition to the race, the event included health education booths, fitness demonstrations, and first-aid stations managed by university volunteers and local health professionals, emphasizing preventive care and wellness. The marathon fostered a sense of unity, motivation, and collective responsibility toward adopting healthier habits.

Understanding the Role of Charities in Bahrain

Students from the Mass Communications & PR programme attended a conference at the Sofitel and met HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s representative for Charity Works & Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth & Sports. Students learnt the importance of volunteering and charitable giving. Social responsibility is of great importance to Ahlia University and teaching our students how to become involved is a critical part of the student experience [14].

Al-Ahliyya University Visit to Al-Fateh Secondary School for Boys

As part of its ongoing commitment to community outreach and youth well-being, Ahlia University conducted an educational visit to Al-Fateh Secondary School for Boys. The initiative aimed to promote health awareness, mental well-being, and healthy lifestyle practices among high school students [15].

During the visit, Ahlia University faculty members and student volunteers engaged with students through interactive discussions and presentations on topics such as stress management, balanced nutrition, physical activity, and emotional resilience. The event also highlighted the importance of continuing education and self-development as essential factors contributing to personal and social well-being.

Al-Ahlia University Visit to Shaikh Abdullah Bin Isa Al Khalifa Industrial High School for Boys

As part of its commitment to community health outreach and youth well-being, Ahlia University conducted a outreach visit to Shaikh Abdullah Bin Isa Al-Khalifa Industrial High School for Boys in Isa Town. The objective of the visit was to bring preventive health services, engage students in physical and recreational activities, and promote healthy lifestyle habits among young men in the local community [16].

During the session, Ahlia University health-service teams provided free basic health checks including height/weight screening, body-mass-index calculation, and health advice on nutrition and physical fitness. In parallel, students participated in fun and gamified physical-activity challenges - such as short team sports, relay races and interactive wellness workshops - designed to foster interest in regular exercise, healthy competition and peer engagement.

“Al-Ahlia” expresses its readiness to volunteer in the national campaign to combat Corona

Professor Al-Hawaj, Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, announced eligibility for his application to volunteer to work in the national campaign against the Corona virus, expressing confidence that a large number of teachers and employees, the students and graduates of Ahlia University were also quick to do so, and that the university encourages all its members to do so, of course, as affiliation [17].

This country and loyalty to its wise leadership are two main pillars of the foundations of education and character building, whether in the private university or in our various universities and other national institutions. He added: We are proud that a large number of our professors and employees hurriedly demanded that we progress to volunteer to work in the national campaign to combat the Corona virus, it is a duty compelled by our belonging to this dear homeland and our loyalty to its leadership.

The university with all its professors, staff, and students are available to serve this dear country in this exceptional circumstance during what the whole world is going through.

“Al-Ahlia” students visit “Dar yoko” inmates

As part of its commitment to community engagement and social responsibility, Ahlia University students provided financial and moral support to the Yoko Parents’ Care Home. This initiative forms part of the University’s broader social responsibility and outreach programmes, which aim to strengthen community ties and improve the well-being of vulnerable groups [18].

The Student Activities Department organized a series of charitable and purposeful events, with proceeds directed to support the staff and residents of the Care Home. These events were designed not only to provide financial assistance, but also to foster empathy, compassion, and social awareness among Ahlia students, reinforcing the University’s mission to nurture active and responsible citizens.

8. Student volunteering and local-community reach

Students as health-promotion multipliers

Ahlia’s model deliberately connects co-curricular recognition with community service. Through the ‘A’ Activity Credit, students receive formal recognition for volunteer work, community engagement, sport, event organisation and approved workshops or seminars. The Community Engagement Plan also places students alongside faculty, staff, alumni and organisations in the exchange of information, resources, referrals, service and learning opportunities. [E2] · [E3]

Community settings and beneficiaries

Ahlia’s public evidence further records off-campus campaigning through the TOGETHER S.A.F.E. initiative and a pattern of school and community visits. These examples demonstrate that the University’s engagement is not restricted to internal service provision. [E2]

9. Recurrence and continuing implementation

The 2024 reporting-year evidence sits within a continuing sequence of health and well-being activities before and after the evidence year. This recurrence confirms that the University’s outreach is programmed, while individual campaigns provide flexible ad hoc responses to specific health priorities.

The College of Medical and Health Sciences now makes community service and outreach in healthcare, rehabilitation, nutrition, dietetics and food service an explicit college goal, alongside agreements with government, hospitals, industry and the wider community. This confirms continued institutional ownership of the outreach model. [E16] · [E17] · [E18] · [E19] · [E20] · [E21]

Institutional conclusion

Ahlia University therefore answers this indicator YES — PROGRAMMED, WITH COMPLEMENTARY AD HOC INITIATIVES. The University’s 2024 evidence demonstrates a governed, recurring and inclusive community-health system: strategic and WHO-aligned oversight; curriculum-based health delivery in external clinical settings; recognised student volunteering; targeted support for people with disabilities; and dated public-health initiatives addressing nutrition, diabetes prevention, mental well-being, mobility and healthy lifestyles. [E2] · [E3] · [E4] · [E5] · [E7] · [E8] · [E10] · [E11]

10. Public evidence register

The following sources are publicly accessible. Reporting-year evidence is listed first, followed by institutional framework, programme-history and continuity sources. Each evidence identifier used in the report is a live hyperlink.

10. Public evidence register — continued