SDG 3: GOOD HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Ahlia University firmly recognizes that the health and wellbeing of its community are fundamental pillars for achieving academic excellence, sustainable development, and social prosperity. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 — Ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all at all ages — the university has integrated health promotion, mental wellness, and preventive care as essential components of its institutional strategy. The university’s commitment extends beyond compliance with health and safety regulations; it seeks to foster a holistic environment that supports both physical and psychological wellbeing among students, faculty, and staff. Through its on-campus health clinic, continuous awareness campaigns, mental health counselling services, and partnerships with national health authorities, Ahlia University ensures accessible, inclusive, and high-quality health services for all members of its community. Moreover, AU actively promotes a culture of wellness through education, research, and community engagement. Health-related topics are embedded across various programs, encouraging students to develop a lifelong awareness of healthy lifestyles, social responsibility, and sustainability. By cultivating an environment where wellbeing is valued as a shared responsibility, Ahlia University contributes not only to SDG 3 but also to the broader vision of building a resilient and healthy society within the Kingdom of Bahrain and beyond.

3.3.5 Does your university as a body provide students and staff with access to free mental health support?

Mental Health and Counseling Services

The Directorate of Student Counseling & Advising offers student-centered counseling services addressing academic, personal, social, and psychological concerns. Qualified counselors are available to assist students in overcoming challenges that may interfere with their academic success and overall well-being. Confidentiality is maintained, and services are accessible through scheduled appointments.

Health Awareness and Outreach Programs

Ahlia University actively organizes health awareness events and workshops in collaboration with healthcare organizations. These programs include free medical tests (e.g., weight, blood sugar, BMI) and consultations with specialists such as nutritionists and dental professionals. Such initiatives aim to educate the university community on various health topics and promote preventive care.

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.

Policy for Admitting and Supporting Students with Special Needs

Having identified the nature of his/her disability or special need, the student, after having been provisionally admitted to the University, will be interviewed by the Special Needs Admission Committee, that includes a representative from:

• A faculty member who has some background in the medical field
• Admissions – Directorate of Admission and Registration.
• Guidance/Counseling- Directorate of Counseling
• Nurse (when available)

If the Committee, by majority vote, determines that the University can accommodate the kind of disability or special need with which the student is encumbered, the student will be granted admission to the University, with a recognized disability or special need, after taking in to account the needs and the requirements of the academic program the student is applying to. Thus, making it possible for the student to avail of all the privileges/benefits conferred to students with special needs as contained herein. If the Committee, by majority vote, determines that the student does not have a known disability or special need, then the student will be granted ordinary admission – in which case the student cannot avail of all the privileges/benefits conferred to students with special needs as contained herein. If the Committee, by majority vote, determines that the student has a known disability or special need but which the University cannot feasibly accommodate, the student will be denied admission and the provisional admission will be rescinded. The University is not responsible for any costs the student may have incurred, of any sort, by reliance on the provisionally offered admission.

Facilities and support for special need students

Ahlia University is equally inclusive to special needs students and non-special needs students. Students with special needs are welcomed to apply in all Ahlia University programmes. Admission of students with special needs is done through a special needs admission committee, which assess the potential of candidates to succeed in their chosen academic programme. Special needs students are given support and guidance by Ahlia University faculty and staff, Directorate of Student Activities and Services and Directorate of Student Counselling. The university has a special needs committee that is responsible to pursue the welfare of all students with special needs. In the case of undeclared special needs or in the case of a new development of any kind of special needs, the university’s special needs committee, faculty and staff at Ahlia University will endeavour to identify the special needs and will support students and their needs.

Facilities

• Car Park: AU provides, where possible, special car parking slots for disabled students and students with special needs.
• Bathrooms: AU provides suitable bathrooms for disabled students and students with special needs.
• Entrances: AU provides suitable ramps on entrances as well as railings and elevator services (where appropriate) for disabled students and students with special needs.
• Classrooms: Where needed, especially designed seating facilities in classrooms and labs are provided.

AU will not provide a medical treatment for students with special needs. Rather, every effort will be made to provide these students with guidance to obtain medical treatment in public and private facilities in proximity to the University. The university has a full time nurse in the campus for any consultation and emergencies.

Classrooms and labs

• Assistive Devices: AU will allow students with special needs to use assistive devices in classrooms and labs and, where possible, will provide some supportive or adaptive devices that will help them learn better,
• Support in classrooms and labs: AU will respond adequately to the kind of impairment that the special needs student the impairments could be physical (like visual impairment or hearing impairment) or mental such as certain disorders (autism or epilepsy or others).

Examinations

• Location and Duration of Exam: Where needed, the students with special needs will be provided with a separate location in a suitable environment to write the exam.
• Where necessary, additional exam time as appropriate will be provided for students with special needs to complete their exams.
• At all times, discretion in dealing with students with special needs is observed; an example would be if there is tardiness on arrival or difficulty in reaching the exam room.
• Where needed, we will provide necessary support for the student special needs to complete the exam and this support could be, for example, in the form of note-taking (or other).

Activities

Ahlia University strives to offer a healthy and enriching environment to support, guide, and encourage students with special needs to participate in general student activities within the university and/or beyond. We encourage all students to participate in local, regional, and international events that are designed to celebrate the achievements of all students in addition to events specifically designed for students with special needs.

Policy for Supporting Students with Special Needs

AU Application Form has a specific section for students to fill if they have any special needs support Special needs is an underrepresented group- Special needs students are given support and guidance by Ahlia University faculty and staff, Directorate of Student Activities and Services, and Directorate of Student Counselling. Further, a special needs committee was created to specifically look after the welfare of the students with special needs. The student, after having been provisionally admitted to the University, will be interviewed by the special needs admission committee. If the Committee, by majority vote, determines that the University can accommodate the kind of disability or special need with which the student is encumbered, the student will be granted admission to the University. Thus, making it possible for the student to avail of all the privileges/benefits conferred to disabled students and students with special needs as contained herein. Students with a disability or special need ought to disclose the nature of their disability on the AU admissions application form.

Any student who fails to notify the University

Students with a disability or special need ought to disclose the nature of their disability on the AU admissions application form. Any student who fails to notify the University Waives any right that would otherwise have been obtained as per to this policy. If assessed, based on the Universities sole discretion, that accommodating the nature of the disability or special need is posing hardship or risk to the University, then the student in question may be subject to having his/her registration cancelled and admission annulled. Should registration be cancelled, pursuant to “b” above, the students forfeits all fees and tuition having been paid to the University If the Committee, by majority vote, determines that the University can accommodate the kind of disability or special need with which the student is encumbered, the student will be granted admission to the University, with a recognized disability or special need. Thus, making it possible for the student to avail of all the privileges/benefits conferred to disabled students and students with special needs as contained herein. If the Committee, by majority vote, determines that the student does not have cognizable disability or special need, then the student will be granted ordinary admission – in which case the student cannot avail of all the privileges/benefits conferred to disabled students and students with special needs as contained herein.

Awareness Campaigns and Events on Mental Health

Supporting Students’ Wellbeing: The Department of Counseling Hosts a Lecture on Managing Exam Stress

The Department of Counseling at Ahlia University recently hosted a compelling lecture titled “Proper Dealing with Psychological Stress During the Examination Period.” The lecture, presented by renowned clinical psychologist Ms. Khadija Al-Awainati, aimed to guide students and address strategies to effectively manage stress and overcome psychological challenges during the exams period. Recognizing the importance of supporting the mental and psychological well-being of its students, the Counseling Department organised this lecture as part of its commitment to ensuring students’ academic success and fostering a supportive academic environment for all. Ms. Rasha Al-Najdi, Director of Counseling Department, emphasised the University’s dedication to promoting students’ well-being, providing them with the necessary assistance, and offering solutions to their challenges. During the lecture, Ms. Khadija Al-Awainati explained deeply the psychological factors that profoundly impact students due to their exposure to stress during the exam period. Ms. Al-Awainati highlighted the importance of adopting stress management strategies, seeking advice, and the University’s advisors to address their concerns and alleviate anxiety. These measures are crucial for maintaining focus, psychological equilibrium, and enhancing mental health during exams. Dr. Faisal Al-Showaikh, the Dean of Student Affairs, commented: “We fully acknowledged the substantial impact of stress on students during exams, and we are committed to assisting them at any time. By educating students and cultivating a comprehensive understanding of psychological factors and coping mechanisms, we aim to foster a successful and healthier academic environment.”

Your Mental Health Begins with Your Plate

Ahlia University students mark World Food Day with Health Awareness Event Students from the College of Medical and Health Sciences at Ahlia University marked World Food Day by organizing a Health Day event under the theme “Your Mental Health Begins with Your Plate.” The event aimed to raise awareness about the deep connection between nutrition and mental health through a series of lectures, projects exhibition, and interactive sessions. It attended by senior University officials, academics, and a large number of students. Prof. Abdulla Al-Hawaj, Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, inaugurated the event, commending students for their active engagement and emphasizing their central role as ambassadors of knowledge and humanity. He highlighted the importance of student activities in fostering community awareness and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to open education and social responsibility. Prof. Mukhtar Al-Hashimi, Vice President for Academic Affairs, discussed the scientific relationship between healthy diet and mental performance, noting that balanced nutrition and physical activity contribute significantly to better academic outcomes and reduced stress. For his part, Prof. Mohamed Elissawi, Dean of the College of Medical and Health Sciences, stressed that the connection between nutrition and mental health underscores the need for a holistic approach to wellbeing, integrating both physical and psychological health as essential pillars for success and balance. The event also featured expert presentations by Dr. Enas El-Ballat, who explained how essential nutrients affect brain function and mood, while Dr. Fatima Marzooq, shared the latest World Health Organization data on rising global rates of anxiety and depression. Dr. Marzooq called for promoting mental health initiatives within universities that support both students and faculty. The event concluded with an exhibition where students presented their projects and wellness initiatives, which reflected a commitment to transforming scientific knowledge into practical awareness, encouraging sustainable healthy lifestyles and a stronger sense of community responsibility.

Ahlia University Students Secured Second Place in “It’s Okay 5” Competition

In a proud achievement, students from Ahlia University secured second place in the fifth edition of “It’s Okay” competition, hosted by Silwan Psychiatric Hospital. The event aims to raise awareness among youth and university students on mental health topics. Ahlia University’s team excelled in various knowledge and cultural categories, earning them the well-deserved second place after a competitive challenge with other student teams. Ms. Rasha Al-Najdi, team supervisor and Director of Counseling and Advising at Ahlia University, praised the students for their teamwork, creativity, and determination. “Our students truly embodied the spirit of Ahlia University with their collaborative efforts and commitment to excellence, securing their place among the top competitors,” she remarked. The “It’s Okay” competition is part of a broader campaign run by Silwan Psychiatric Hospital, designed to break down the stigma around mental illness. It seeks to correct common misconceptions about mental health, encouraging people to view mental illness as no different from physical illness. The competition also aims to promote understanding and encourage individuals to seek help when needed without fear of judgment, ultimately fostering healthier communities. It also works to support public and private institutions in advocating for mental health care, encouraging employees to consult professionals when necessary.

Thanks and Gratitude are one of the Best Healing Techniques

In a workshop organized by the Media Club: Owainati: Thanks and gratitude are one of the best healing techniques Cinematographer: Student Sadiq Jaafar Cinematographer: Student Syed Hassan Sayed Salman Written by: Student Syed Ali Sayed Hussain The Media Club in the Department of Media and Public Relations organized a workshop on "Mental Health", during the first semester 2024-2025 at Ahlia University, today, October 27. The workshop was presented by Dr. Mohammed Al-Owainati, Professor in the Department of Media and Public Relations at Al-Ahlia. Owainati spoke about the importance of mental health and its role in achieving success and psychological stability. Al-Owainati reviewed the importance of raising awareness about mental health issues and enhancing support for individuals with psychological challenges and emphasized the close relationship between mental health and psychological balance, how this can contribute to achieving sustainable success in life and how negative beliefs can affect mental health. Owainati gave tips to overcome these beliefs and promote positive thinking, indicating that thanks and gratitude are among the best healing and treatment strategies. The Owainati workshop included many practical activities and training games. The Head of the Media and Public Relations Department at Al-Ahlia, Dr. Zainab Abdul Nabi, stressed the importance of attending this type of workshop for its role in enhancing academic performance, and improving students' relations in general and their interaction and dealings with society. This workshop is an important step to promote mental health awareness among students. This workshop comes within the context of the activities of the Media Club in organizing more events that contribute to supporting mental health and developing students' skills in this field.

Self-Care through Art Workshop

The College of Business and Finance organized a workshop titled “Art Journalling for Emotional Self-care”, presented by Ms. Asrar Al Taifi, an emotional health coach at Sacred Feeler Clinic. The Workshop aimed to practice emotional self-care by using art as a self-awareness tool and explore their inner world. Ms. Al Taifi said that arts contribute effectively to practicing self-care and controlling individuals’ emotions, focusing on the spirit, soul and body to positively strengthen the relationship between life and self-requirements.

The Effect of Electronic Media on Mental Health

Ahlia University seeks to increase students’ awareness of the effects of electronic media on contemporary life, and the post pandemic world by hosting a lecture by Dr. Suhair Al-Mohannadi titled “The Effect of Electronic Media on Mental Health” on the 5th of December 2022. We look forward to seeing you there.

Topics

• Electronic media and its importance to the modern man.
• Challenges of electronic media and its uses.
• The health and psychological effects of electronic media users.
• Coping mechanisms to mitigate impacts.

Student Confidence Building Programme

As part of Ahlia’s drive to further develop its students and distinguish its graduates, Ahlia is launching the “Student Confidence Building” extra-curricular programme on the summer session. This programme includes eight workshops designed especially to our students to improve their self-confidence that will be reflected positively on their academic, social, and future professional lives. Students that successfully complete this programme will receive a certificate and Two A credits. Build yourself, develop your confidence, be special by registering in Ahlia’s unique “Student Confidence Building” programme. If you are: Undergraduate GPA ≥ 2.75 Then what are you waiting for? Be part of our unique program by filling the form below. Hurry up! Limited number of applicants will be accepted!

Anti-Bullying Hackathon

(Animation Video, Film, Computer Game, or any other multimedia system …) to support ANTI BULLYING Awareness. OPEN to all IT College Students & Alumni Individual/Group(1-4) Evaluation Criteria:

• Relevance to Topic
• Originality
• Design
• Creativity
• Organization of Content
• Language Mechanics

Mandala Coloring

The College of Business and finance invites you to attend a workshop titled “Mandala Coloring” on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 12:00 PM in the theater hall. Mandala coloring is one of the common methods of art therapy. It is a relaxing exercise that can free your mind from thinking about other things and allow you to live in the moment. Coloring mandalas helps improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, minimize negative thoughts, refresh the mind, and ignite creativity.

Art Journaling for Emotional Self Care

The College of Business and finance are cordially invites you to attend “Art Journaling for Emotional Self-care”. Seats are limited, for participations Kindly contact via 17298986 or [email protected]

Objectives:

In this workshop, Participants will be able to:

• Practice emotional self care.
• Use art as a self awareness tool.
• Explore their inner world.

Need to know:

• For ages 21+
• Focused on emotional well-being
• Only 10 spots available
• Beginner-friendly art exercises.

About the Instructor:

Asrar Al Taifi is a multi-disciplinary wellness practitioner, artist, facilitator, and developing entrepreneur. As an artist and facilitator, she leads therapeutic art journaling sessions to groups who value creativity, authenticity, and wellbeing. As an emotional health coach, she offers healing sessions to Highly Sensitive People who are looking for compassionate sanctuary and self recovery. As a movement teacher and lifelong student of the human body, Asrar offers a somatic, physiotherapy-based yoga practice for people seeking to move in an active, fluid, and self-devoted way. Her dream is to cultivate a network of trust with people who share a passion for art, health, and giving. Asrar’s markers for business success are: 1) Healthy personal impact. 2) Active contribution to the wellness and harmony of our societies, wherever we are in the world.

Yoga & Mindfulness session (Ladies Only)

College of Business and finance are cordially invites you to attend “Yoga & Mindfulness session”. Seats are limited, for participations Kindly contact Ms. Bibi almahdi via 17298986 or [email protected].

About the session

Arima Journey is glad to offer Community at ahlia university a gentle yoga practice for all female to uplift their minds, bodies and souls. in this one Hour session, we will breathe, meditate and practice various heart opener yoga poses to cultivate self-love. yogis will float into the rest of their day feeling centered, energized and relaxed.

About Arima Journey for Yoga & Mindfulness

Arima Journey aims to promote mental and physical fitness through blending the powerful practices of yoga and mindfulness. Therefore, the session will offer the yogis a mindful space to reconnect to the soul, to breathe, to meditate, to move, to relax and to find calm in the chaos!

Instructor

Ms. Arima hachem Founder Arima journey w.l.l About the Founder Amira Hachem Her educational background is replete with degrees from the Lebanese American University in Beirut. She has earned an MA Degree in Educational Management and a BS Degree in Business Marketing. Internationally, she successfully completed a Literacy Coach Certification from Teacher’s College Columbia University in New York, USA. She is a genuine educator with over 20 years of experience in private schools/universities within the Middle East. In June 2021, she decided to craft a new career path and founded ‘Arima Journey for Yoga & Mindfulness’. Currently, she is a full-time ‘Yogipreneur’ and in September 2022, Arima Journey has been officially registered as a Yoga & Mindfulness company in the Kingdom of Bahrain under the Commercial Registration 157250 Certified by Yoga Alliance, she has successfully completed these certifications: – 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) – 95-hour Kids Yoga – 20-hour Continuing Education, Yin Yoga She is also completed the following Mindfulness coursework and certifications: – 8-week ‘Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction’ certification course – ‘The Mindful Teacher’ certification with Mindful Schools in USA

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.

References

The following table:

• [1] AHLIA, "Health and wellbeing services," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/health-and-wellbeing-services/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [2] AHLIA, "In Cooperation with Silwan Psychiatric Hospital Ahlia Provides Psychological Support for Students with Special Needs," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/in-cooperation-with-silwan-psychiatric-hospital-ahlia-provides-psychological-support-for-students-with-special-needs/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [3] AHLIA, "Policy for Admitting and Supporting Students with Special Needs," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/disability-policy. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [4] AHLIA, "Supporting Students’ Wellbeing: The Department of Counseling Hosts a Lecture on Managing Exam Stress," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/supporting-students-wellbeing-the-department-of-counseling-hosts-a-lecture-on-managing-exam-stress/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [5] AHLIA, "Your Mental Health Begins with Your Plate," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/your-mental-health-begins-with-your-plate/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [6] AHLIA, "Ahlia University Students Secured Second Place in “It’s Okay 5” Competition," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/ahlia-university-students-secured-second-place-in-its-okay-5-competition/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [7] AHLIA, "Thanks and Gratitude are one of the Best Healing Techniques," [Online]. Available: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBoeclKscuJ/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [8] AHLIA, "Self-Care through Art Workshop," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/self-care-through-art-workshop/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [9] AHLIA, "The Effect of Electronic Media on Mental Health," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/the-effect-of-electronic-media-on-mental-health/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [10] AHLIA, "Student Confidence Building Programme," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/student-confidence-building-programme/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [11] AHLIA, "Anti-Bullying Hackathon," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/anti-bullying-hackathon/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [12] AHLIA, "Mandala Coloring," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/mandala-coloring/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [13] AHLIA, "Art Journaling for Emotional Self Care," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/art-journaling-for-emotional-self-care/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [14] AHLIA, "Yoga & Mindfulness session (Ladies Only)," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/yoga-mindfulness-session-ladies-only/. [Accessed 09 2025].
• [15] AHLIA, "ETHER S.A.F.E” CAMPAIGN," [Online]. Available: https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/together-s-f-e-campaign/. [Accessed 09 2025].