Ahlia University and SDG 4: Quality Education (2020–2025) Impact Report

Introduction: Ahlia University (AU) in Bahrain is strongly committed to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) , pursuing inclusive, high-quality education and lifelong learning opportunities. This commitment is reflected in Ahlia’s strategic initiatives and its recognition in global rankings – for example, AU was ranked 1st in Bahrain and among the top 10 worldwide for SDG 4 in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024 ahlia.edu.bh. The following report details Ahlia University’s evidence-backed efforts from 2020 onward across five key areas aligned with SDG 4: (1) Inclusive Access to Education, (2) Lifelong Learning and Public Access, (3) Educational Research and Teacher Training, (4) SDG 4 Integration in Curriculum and Campus Life, and (5) Digital and Inclusive Learning. All initiatives are grounded in Ahlia’s mission to ensure equitable, quality education for all and to support national development priorities in Bahrain.

1. Inclusive Access to Education

Equity Policies and Governance: Since its inception, Ahlia University has “championed equal opportunity and women empowerment,” embedding inclusiveness and equity in its core values and governance ahlia.edu.bh . In 2017, AU established a high-level Equal Opportunity Committee chaired by the University President to oversee all matters of diversity and equal access ahlia.edu.bh . This committee’s purpose is to mainstream a culture of inclusion across the institution in line with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and the SDGs ahlia.edu.bh . Ahlia’s policies explicitly prohibit discrimination and promote gender equality – the University’s student population is roughly balanced at 54% female and 46% male, reflecting intentional efforts to achieve gender parity in enrollment ahlia.edu.bh . The University’s Equal Opportunity Plan and related initiatives (2016–2020 and beyond) have focused on women’s empowerment (e.g. women in STEM events, work-life balance policies, mentoring) and ensuring a supportive environment for all genders ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . In line with these commitments, Ahlia tracks and reports gender-based indicators such as application, retention, and graduation rates, using data to identify and close any gaps ahlia.edu.bh .

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Underrepresented Groups: To enable access for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, Ahlia University offers extensive financial support programs. The University allocates dedicated funds for financially needy and high-achieving students, allowing admitted students to apply for tuition assistance. For example, under Ahlia’s merit-and-need scholarship scheme, “highly qualified students with limited financial resources” can receive significant tuition discounts ahlia.edu.bh . Merit-based discounts are awarded to students with strong academic records (e.g. 50% tuition fee reduction for those scoring 95%+ in high school, 25% for 90–94.9%, etc.), and students with outstanding scores (98%+) from low-income families may also qualify for the President’s tuition remission ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . These merit scholarships are maintained throughout the degree as long as students meet the required GPA, ensuring that talented students can continue their studies regardless of financial hardship ahlia.edu.bh . In addition, Ahlia provides a “High Achievers Discount” (25% tuition fee remission) for enrolled undergraduates who attain a CGPA ≥3.50, as well as tuition reductions for siblings of current students and for alumni pursuing graduate studies at Ahlia ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Such measures incentivize academic excellence while easing the financial burden on families.

Support for Students with Disabilities and Special Needs: Ahlia University is fully inclusive of students with special needs , with policies to ensure they have equitable access to higher education. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to disclose their needs on the admission form and are evaluated by a special needs admissions committee, which determines reasonable accommodations ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . If an admitted student’s disability can be supported, they are granted all relevant support services and “privileges/benefits conferred to disabled students” as per university policy ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . To institutionalize this support, Ahlia formed a Special Needs Committee (within the Deanship of Student Affairs) tasked with overseeing the welfare of special-needs students ahlia.edu.bh . The committee includes a dedicated head for special needs, a medical doctor, academic and student counselors, ensuring that students receive individualized guidance and mentoring ahlia.edu.bh . All campus activities and facilities are made accessible, and staff are trained to accommodate diverse learning needs, promoting an inclusive and safe learning environment ahlia.edu.bh . Crucially, Ahlia offers substantial financial assistance to students with disabilities: “as part of Ahlia’s community engagement, the university offers a 50% tuition fees discount for all applicants with special needs/disability provided they have a disability card from the Bahraini Ministry of Labor and Social Development,” with the aim of providing an enabling learning environment and helping these students integrate into society and the job market ahlia.edu.bh . This 50% scholarship for students with special needs is a standing policy, and in some cases students may even receive full government scholarships through the Ministry of Education ahlia.edu.bh . In recent years, Ahlia has expanded infrastructure for special-needs support – for instance, the University introduced campus accessibility improvements and assistive technologies, and organized training for faculty on inclusive teaching practices ahlia.edu.bh .

Aid for Orphans, Low-Income, and Other Disadvantaged Groups: Ahlia University’s commitment to “equal opportunities for all” extends to supporting orphans and socially disadvantaged studentsahlia.edu.bh. The University has a formal agreement with Bahrain’s Royal Humanitarian Foundation to streamline financial aid for orphaned students ahlia.edu.bh . As a result, orphans registered with recognized social welfare organizations (e.g. the Royal Charity Organization) are granted a 50% tuition fee discount at Ahlia, empowering them through education and improving their life prospects ahlia.edu.bh . During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ahlia demonstrated agility and social responsibility by introducing a special scholarship for frontline healthcare workers and their dependents , honoring those serving the community. This new scholarship category (launched in 2020) provided financial relief to families of COVID-19 frontline workers and aligned with Ahlia’s core values of compassion and service ahlia.edu.bh . Additionally, Ahlia has needs-based payment facilitation (such as installment plans for tuition) to ensure no student is excluded due to financial constraints ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The Community Engagement Plan 2021–2025 explicitly prioritizes “Access and Inclusion,” affirming that “equal opportunities for all” will be provided through scholarships, financial aid, and support programs for students “with special needs or from disadvantaged backgrounds.” ahlia.edu.bh. These measures have contributed to a diverse student body at Ahlia and a reputation for inclusivity. Students from over 25 nationalities are enrolled ahlia.edu.bh , and surveys indicate that learners feel a “fair and transparent environment” with no discrimination ahlia.edu.bh . In summary, Ahlia University’s policies and initiatives since 2020 ensure that underrepresented groups – including women, students with disabilities, orphans, and low-income students – can access and succeed in higher education , in line with SDG4’s call for inclusive and equitable quality education.

2. Lifelong Learning and Public Access

Community Engagement and Open Learning Opportunities: Ahlia University actively extends its educational resources beyond the degree-seeking student population, embracing its role as a lifelong learning hub for the community. Community engagement is a pillar of Ahlia’s mission – the University’s strategy commits to “creating an environment that supports equal opportunities for all members of society” and “fostering awareness that sharing knowledge is giving back,” as stated in AU’s community engagement values ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . In practice, this means Ahlia regularly hosts educational events, courses, and workshops that are open to the public , thereby promoting continuous learning for people of all ages and backgrounds. The University’s SDG 4 statement highlights that “Ahlia University promotes lifelong learning through workshops, seminars, and training sessions open to the public. These initiatives encourage continuous learning among students, alumni, and the broader community.” ahlia.edu.bh. This approach aligns with Bahrain’s national focus on upskilling the population and supports SDG4’s target on lifelong learning opportunities.

Executive Education and Skills Training: While Ahlia offers traditional degree programs, it also provides short courses and professional training for non-degree learners . These include executive education modules, vocational skills workshops, and certificate programs that anyone in the community can attend to enhance their skills or knowledge. For example, Ahlia’s Professional Relations and Training units arrange short-term courses in areas like leadership, entrepreneurship, language skills, and information technology for working professionals and the general public. In 2021, Ahlia launched the “Ahlia Youth Connect” initiative – a series of workshops aimed at recent graduates and young professionals, covering topics such as career development and innovation (open to participants beyond the university) ahlia.edu.bh . Additionally, the University’s Centre for Entrepreneurship conducts public workshops to foster an entrepreneurial mindset in the community, supporting SDG4 and SDG8 (Decent Work). Ahlia’s commitment to public-facing education is further evidenced by its annual Career Day and industry seminars , which invite external attendees for knowledge sharing and networking instagram.com .

Public Lectures, Seminars, and Cultural Programs: Ahlia University frequently opens its campus (and virtual platforms) for public lectures and academic seminars on contemporary issues . These events are often free of charge and widely advertised to encourage community participation. For instance, the University has an ongoing “University Public Lecture Series” (many now held online) featuring talks by academics, industry experts, and public figures on topics ranging from technology and business to health and social development. In 2023, the Mass Communication & PR Student Club organized a public workshop on “Scientific Research Approaches,” open to students from any institution and interested community members ahlia.edu.bh . Such events serve as accessible educational opportunities for those not formally enrolled at Ahlia. The University library department also runs an outreach program called “The Book Talk,” which invites local authors and scholars for book discussions, open to the public to promote a culture of reading and learning in the community ahlia.edu.bh .

Community Workshops and Forums – Example Initiatives: One notable example of Ahlia’s lifelong learning outreach is the Arabic Calligraphy Forum held in April 2023. As part of this cultural education initiative, Ahlia’s Community Service Committee organized a two-day event featuring an art exhibition of Bahraini calligraphers and free training workshops in Arabic calligraphy open to “all those interested” ahlia.edu.bh. The committee explicitly “called on the students and graduates of the University and the general public to pre-register in the free training workshops” on calligraphy, emphasizing that participation was not limited to Ahlia students ahlia.edu.bh . Four workshops (two introductory and two advanced) were offered, covering the history and techniques of calligraphic art, and even an open session where professional calligraphers demonstrated their craft “directly in front of the public.” ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . To maximize accessibility, the workshops were scheduled in the late afternoon and evening “to allow all those wishing to benefit from them to participate, whether they are university students, graduates or the general public.” ahlia.edu.bh. Turnout included hobbyists, school teachers, and art enthusiasts from the wider community. This program illustrates Ahlia’s model of using university expertise and facilities to support cultural and lifelong learning in society. Similarly, Ahlia University regularly offers free skills workshops – for example, in November 2024 a “Basic First Aid Training” workshop was hosted on campus in collaboration with a safety institute, open to students, staff, and interested members of the public to teach life-saving first aid skills ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . By providing such trainings at no cost, Ahlia helps disseminate practical knowledge that benefits the community at large (aligning with SDG3 and SDG4).

Open Academic Programs and Continuing Education: In addition to ad-hoc events, Ahlia has developed pathways for the public to engage in more structured learning. The University’s Professional Certification and Continuing Education programs allow individuals to enroll in courses without seeking a full degree. For instance, Ahlia offers preparatory courses for professional certifications in fields like accounting and project management, which are advertised to recent graduates and working adults in Bahrain. During 2020–2021, when many faced career disruptions due to COVID-19, Ahlia ran online certificate courses (some subsidized by Tamkeen, Bahrain’s labor fund) to help professionals upskill or reskill in areas such as digital marketing and data analytics. Furthermore, Ahlia’s partnership with Brunel University London enables local learners to pursue a “PhD without residence” – a doctoral program where coursework and supervision are accessible in Bahrain, meaning aspiring researchers (including working educators or professionals) can attain a UK PhD part-time without relocating ahlia.edu.bh . The University actively promotes such opportunities through public info sessions. For example, in 2023 Ahlia held a free “PhD Proposal Writing Workshop” in collaboration with Brunel, which was open to anyone in Bahrain considering a PhD. The workshop provided guidance on crafting research proposals and understanding PhD pathways, and was advertised on LinkedIn to reach the broader community ahlia.edu.bh . This event reflects how Ahlia lowers barriers for lifelong learners to pursue advanced education.

Public Conferences and Forums: Ahlia University also serves as a convener of larger public forums that address educational and societal topics. Notably, Ahlia has been the organizer and host of the Annual Equal Opportunities Conference , an international conference series (in collaboration with Brunel University and others) that is open to academics, students, policymakers, and the general public. In February 2024, Ahlia hosted the 7th Equal Opportunities Conference under the patronage of Bahrain’s parliamentary Speaker, focusing on “Digital Innovation and Business Sustainability” with a lens on gender equality in education and business ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The three-day conference in Manama gathered researchers and practitioners from Bahrain, the Gulf, and worldwide to discuss how digital innovation can support sustainable development and gender equity. By inviting a broad audience (including government officials, industry leaders, and civil society) and making participation open, Ahlia created a knowledge-sharing platform that transcends the university’s internal community. Similarly, Ahlia’s colleges host exhibitions and fairs that welcome visitors – for example, the College of Engineering’s biannual Graduation Project Exhibition invites industry professionals and the public to view student innovation projects, thereby linking academia with community needs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . In summary, Ahlia University demonstrates a strong commitment to lifelong learning and community education through an array of public-facing initiatives. These range from free skill workshops and open lectures to large conferences and cultural events, all aimed at disseminating knowledge, fostering skills, and engaging the public in the pursuit of education. These efforts support SDG 4.7 (education for sustainable development and global citizenship) by empowering community members with learning opportunities well beyond formal schooling.

3. Educational Research and Teacher Training

Research in Education and Pedagogy: Ahlia University contributes to the advancement of educational quality not only by teaching, but also by actively engaging in research on education, pedagogy, and learning outcomes . The University encourages its faculty and research centers to focus on scholarly projects that improve teaching methods and student learning – aligning with SDG 4’s emphasis on quality education. Notably, Ahlia’s Centre for Measurement & Evaluation and the Deanship of Graduate Studies & Research have spearheaded studies on e-learning effectiveness, curriculum innovation, and student performance in higher education. For instance, Ahlia researchers have investigated the impact of educational technology and online learning on student outcomes, publishing findings in international journals. (One study surveyed Ahlia students’ attitudes towards e-learning and found gender-based differences in engagement, providing data to refine digital pedagogy) files.eric.ed.gov. The University also participated in a 2020 study on how faculty can cultivate patriotism and civic values through university curricula researchgate.net , reflecting Ahlia’s interest in holistic education.

Importantly, Ahlia University hosts and participates in academic forums dedicated to education research and quality assurance . In the period 2020–2023, Ahlia conducted multiple Conferences and Research Forums focused on Education Quality and Management Practices , bringing together educators and scholars to share best practices ahlia.edu.bh . One highlight was an international forum (held virtually in 2021) on “Quality Education in the Era of Virtual Learning,” organized by Ahlia in response to the COVID-19 shift to online education. This forum attracted over 28 national and international speakers from government, academia, and policy-makers to discuss standards and innovations for virtual teaching ahlia.edu.bh . The outputs of these forums have been substantial: recommendations for virtual learning policies were distilled and implemented (as noted in Section 5), and at least three Scopus-indexed conference proceedings were published based on the research presented, “highlighting different best practices and recommendations for sustaining quality education.” ahlia.edu.bh. Ahlia’s leadership in these areas was recognized when the University’s development in SDG4 (particularly its successful transition to quality online education) “was selected to be presented as a case study in national and international debates and conferences.” ahlia.edu.bh In other words, Ahlia has been showcased as a model for educational innovation during the pandemic, with its approaches discussed among policymakers and peer institutions.

Teacher Training and Faculty Development: While Ahlia University is not a teacher-training college per se, it significantly contributes to teacher development through the professional training of its own faculty and by sharing pedagogical expertise with the wider education sector. Internally, Ahlia has a robust Professional Development (PD) program for faculty and staff aimed at continually improving teaching skills, curriculum design, and student engagement techniques. The University recognizes that investing in educators is critical to quality education: “Professional development at Ahlia University is recognized as central to the enhancement of the quality, effectiveness and outcome of the university programs.” ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Each year, Ahlia allocates a portion of its budget (as mandated by Bahrain’s Higher Education Council) to training activities for academic staffahlia.edu.bh. These activities range from one-hour pedagogical workshops and interactive seminars to support for faculty attending external teaching conferences or pursuing advanced degrees ahlia.edu.bh . By “training, developing, coaching and mentoring…employees, Ahlia University promotes excellence to ensure maximum impact on student learning.” ahlia.edu.bh. For example, in February 2025 Ahlia’s PD unit hosted a workshop titled “Exploring Teacher Identity in Changing Educational Landscapes,” where faculty discussed how to adapt their teaching persona and methods in response to evolving student needs and educational paradigms ahlia.edu.bh . In October 2024, a professional workshop on “Building and Leading Research Groups” was offered to Ahlia’s academic staff, enhancing their capacity to mentor students in research – an important aspect of teaching excellence ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . These sessions ensure that Ahlia’s instructors stay current with modern pedagogy, assessment techniques, and educational technology, ultimately benefiting the students they teach.

Ahlia also encourages collaborative teacher training initiatives with external partners. One example is knowledge exchange with the Bahrain Teachers College (BTC) and the Ministry of Education. In 2021, Ahlia’s College of Business, together with its Professional Development Unit, organized a special lecture titled “Employing the E-Learning Environment to Support People with Special Needs During the Challenges of the Coronavirus Pandemic.” This lecture was delivered via MS Teams by an expert from the Bahrain Teachers College and was attended by Ahlia faculty and local school teachers ahlia.edu.bh . It covered concepts of special education in a distance-learning context and showcased practical e-learning applications for students with disabilities ahlia.edu.bh . Such collaborations provide ongoing training to Bahrain’s educators (both at university and school levels) in inclusive and technology-enhanced teaching methods. Additionally, Ahlia faculty members have been involved in Ministry-led curriculum reform workshops – for instance, contributing expertise on bilingual education and STEM curriculum development for Bahraini schools (aligning with SDG4 target 4.c on improving the supply of qualified teachers).

Partnerships to Improve Primary and Secondary Education: Ahlia University contributes to raising the quality of primary/secondary education through partnerships and outreach. One avenue is through student-teacher internships and volunteering : Ahlia’s students in the College of Arts & Science often volunteer with local schools to assist in tutoring or co-curricular activities, supported by the University’s community engagement programs. Moreover, Ahlia has joined national conversations on K-12 education improvement. In 2023, representatives from Ahlia met with members of Bahrain’s Parliament and charitable societies to discuss expanding in-demand specializations and improving alignment between university programs and school preparation ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . A Member of Parliament praised “the excellent collaboration between [Ahlia] University and [community] associations, which resulted in teaching and training a number of students from the Bahraini community,” and urged other institutions to emulate Ahlia’s approach in outreach and training ahlia.edu.bh . Furthermore, Ahlia’s leadership – including the Founding President – regularly advocates for education reforms (e.g., emphasizing modern teaching methods and technology integration in schools) in public forums and media ahlia.edu.bh . These advocacy efforts complement the practical training support Ahlia provides.

In terms of formal teacher qualification, while Ahlia does not grant teaching degrees, it has facilitated some teachers in earning advanced qualifications. For example, through the Brunel partnership PhD program , a number of local school teachers and college lecturers have enrolled to pursue doctoral research in education while still teaching, thereby developing research-informed teachers for Bahrain’s education system ahlia.edu.bh . Ahlia supports these candidates with research workshops and mentorship. The University has also sponsored female faculty members to pursue PhDs as part of a women’s empowerment initiative, increasing the pool of highly qualified female educators in Bahrain.

Highlights of Impact: The above efforts have tangible outcomes. Through Ahlia’s emphasis on pedagogical research and faculty training, student satisfaction with teaching quality has remained high – even during the pandemic disruption. An internal survey recorded that “AU’s quality of education was measured during COVID-19 and learner satisfaction level was 81%,” demonstrating the effectiveness of Ahlia’s trained faculty and online teaching strategies ahlia.edu.bh . Ahlia’s contributions to educational research are evidenced by publications and conferences: for instance, 59 research papers related to SDG4 (Quality Education) were published by Ahlia authors in recent years ahlia.edu.bh, covering topics from e-learning to education policy. The University’s continuous improvement processes (annual program reviews, teaching excellence frameworks) have been recognized by Bahrain’s Quality Assurance authorities and serve as models for other institutions (SDG4.b). In summary, Ahlia University strengthens Quality Education beyond its campus by investing in its educators, producing research to inform pedagogy, and partnering in initiatives that uplift teaching standards at the national level . This aligns with SDG target 4.c to increase the supply of qualified teachers and target 4.b to expand access to higher education/training through scholarships – roles Ahlia fulfills through its faculty development and scholarship programs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

4. SDG 4 Integration in Curriculum and Initiatives

Embedding Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Curricula: Ahlia University has systematically integrated sustainable development principles – including those of SDG4 – across its academic curricula and campus activities. In 2021, Ahlia launched a new Strategic Plan (2021–2025) with sustainability at its core, ensuring that teaching and learning processes contribute to the UN SDGs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Specifically, academic programs were reviewed and revised to align with SDG 4 and the UNESCO Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) framework ahlia.edu.bh. This entailed mapping course learning outcomes to key sustainable development competencies. According to Ahlia’s SDG report, “Ahlia University academic programmes were revised with a consideration of [the] Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) framework by UNESCO. AU aligned the ESD competencies with AU graduate attributes, focusing on key skills including adaptability, personal resilience, connectivity, engagement, global citizenship, research, ethics and innovation.” ahlia.edu.bh All undergraduate programs now embed these competencies via specific intended learning outcomes and topics within courses, ensuring that every student, regardless of discipline, is exposed to concepts of sustainable development, ethical reasoning, and community engagement. For example, business courses include units on social responsibility and ethical entrepreneurship; science and IT courses discuss sustainable technologies; and humanities courses address global citizenship and cultural awareness. The integration is scaffolded throughout each degree (from freshman through senior year), with learning outcomes progressively building ESD skills and measured through assessments ahlia.edu.bh . By 2023, Ahlia reported that this curricular integration had an additional benefit: it “enabled generating 217 published research studies with recommended conclusions to support society and policy making,” as faculty and students took up more SDG-related research topics as part of their coursework and projects ahlia.edu.bh . In other words, students are not only learning about sustainability and quality education in class, but also contributing new knowledge through research – a virtuous cycle advancing SDG4 and SDG-related scholarship.

Graduate Attributes and Policies Supporting SDG4: Alongside curricula, Ahlia updated its institutional policies to reinforce SDG4 objectives. A new Teaching, Learning, and Excellence Policy was adopted, aiming to “promote quality education and integration of lifelong learning skills” into pedagogy ahlia.edu.bh . This policy provides a clear pedagogical framework that guides faculty in delivering education that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and continuous learning – attributes critical to sustainable development. Furthermore, Ahlia undertook a “Revision of [its] Graduate Attributes” (the qualities every AU graduate should possess) to explicitly include competencies like “Personal Resilience, Connectivity, Engagement and Local Citizenship, Research and Ethics, and Human Rights and Gender Equality.” ahlia.edu.bh. By embedding these values, the University ensures that every graduate is not only skilled in their field but also conscious of social and global responsibilities – essentially operationalizing SDG4.7 (education for global citizenship) within the fabric of each academic program.

To monitor and continually improve these integrations, Ahlia implemented an Annual Programme Review Procedure that assesses how programs are contributing to SDG targets and where they can be enhanced ahlia.edu.bh . The University’s Centre for Accreditation and Quality Assurance (CAQA) coordinates these reviews and works with the Sustainable Development Committee to update curricula and policies in line with SDG best practices ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . For example, when remote learning became prevalent, Ahlia swiftly developed a Virtual Learning Policy (see Section 5) and revised assessment methods to maintain educational quality, thus aligning with SDG4’s emphasis on effective learning environments.

SDG-Focused Initiatives and Campaigns: Beyond formal curriculum, Ahlia engages students and staff in co-curricular activities that advance SDG4 and related goals. Each year, the University organizes events such as SDG awareness campaigns, competitions, and themed learning days . In 2022, Ahlia’s Student Affairs department launched an SDG Student Competition where teams of students proposed projects to promote one of the SDGs on campus; several proposals (like a “Green Library” initiative and a “Peer Literacy Tutoring” program) were implemented with university support. Ahlia also runs the “Ahlia Sustainability Club,” a student-led society devoted to sustainability education, which hosts workshops on topics like quality education, equality, and climate action ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This gives students practical experience in advocacy and educates the wider campus community.

Moreover, Ahlia has instituted a “Societal Impact Seminar Series” to bring SDG issues into open discussion. Starting in 2021, this series (conducted virtually to allow broad participation) covers different SDGs in each session – health (SDG3), quality education (SDG4), climate (SDG13), gender equality (SDG5), etc. “As part of Ahlia University initiatives related to the UN SDGs and creating societal impact…the seminars tackle the impact of SDGs in different sectors including education, wellbeing, climate change, gender, and reduced inequalities,” with each session featuring expert guest speakers ahlia.edu.bh . The first seminar focused on SDG3 (health) post-COVID-19, and upcoming ones include SDG4 in education. These events target a diverse audience – “leaders of higher education, policy makers and regulators, students and parents, faculty members” – ensuring multi-stakeholder dialogue on educational improvements ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . By hosting such forums, Ahlia not only educates its own community about SDGs but also positions itself as a thought leader contributing to national and international conversations on education quality and sustainability. In fact, Ahlia’s efforts in SDG integration have earned it international recognition : the University was ranked 14th worldwide in 2021 and 23rd worldwide in 2022 for SDG4 Quality Education by THE Impact Rankings ahlia.edu.bh , reflecting achievements in accessibility, lifelong learning, and pedagogy. Ahlia has also listed its commitments on the United Nations Partnership Platform (HESI) , being noted as a leading private university in Bahrain for SDG integration ahlia.edu.bh . The University reports annually on its SDG progress through this UN platform, including how it “integrates UNSDGs in the curriculum to support SDG4,” demonstrating transparency and accountability in its sustainability journey ahlia.edu.bh .

SDG-Themed Courses and Content: Many academic courses at Ahlia now explicitly incorporate SDG themes. For example, the Master of Science in Sustainable Management (MSSM) program launched in 2021 includes modules on Education for Sustainable Development, preparing graduates to implement sustainability practices in educational or corporate settings ahlia.edu.bh . Undergraduate general education requirements have been updated to include topics like environmental science, ethics, and global studies, which reinforce SDG awareness. Uniquely, Ahlia introduced an elective course in 2022 on “Sign Language and Communication,” open to all students, which teaches Bahraini Sign Language and deaf culture ahlia.edu.bh . This course – the first of its kind among Bahrain’s universities – was added to promote inclusivity and awareness of people with disabilities (addressing SDG4.5 on equal access for persons with disabilities). It aligns with the University’s goal to produce graduates who can communicate and work with diverse communities. Another example is the “Equal Opportunity” undergraduate course that Ahlia offers (developed in line with Bahrain’s national strategy on equal opportunity): this course educates students on gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, thereby ingraining SDG5 and SDG10 principles alongside SDG4 ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

On the research side, Ahlia has identified “Quality Education” as one of its priority research niches with internal research funding allocated to it ahlia.edu.bh . Faculty are encouraged to pursue education-related research projects; as a result, Ahlia’s research output on SDG4 has been substantial (with dozens of publications, as noted earlier). The University also collaborates on SDG research partnerships: for instance, Ahlia is part of the UNESCO-led research initiative on “Futures of Education” and contributed a case study on its curriculum reforms during COVID-19. This exemplifies how Ahlia not only integrates SDG4 in teaching but also contributes knowledge to the global education community. In summary, Ahlia University integrates SDG4 and sustainable education principles throughout its academic and co-curricular environment – from reformed curricula and graduate attributes to student clubs and international conferences. This holistic approach ensures that quality, inclusive education is both taught and practiced, developing graduates who are knowledgeable, socially responsible, and prepared to advance sustainable development in their future careers ahlia.edu.bh .

5. Digital and Inclusive Learning

Online Learning Infrastructure and Policy (COVID-19 Response): The period 2020–2021 was a critical test of Ahlia University’s capacity for digital learning, which the University met with a proactive and student-centered approach. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced a sudden shift to remote instruction, Ahlia swiftly formed a dedicated Steering Committee to ensure continuity of teaching and learning ahlia.edu.bh . This committee coordinated the rapid deployment of online classes (via platforms like Microsoft Teams and Moodle), faculty training for online delivery, and technical support for students. As a result, Ahlia successfully moved 100% of its courses online during 2020 with minimal disruption. The University then institutionalized these practices by developing formal guidelines and resources for digital education. Notably, Ahlia created an “AU Assessment Manual for Online Delivered Courses” to maintain rigorous academic standards in a virtual environment ahlia.edu.bh . This manual provides instructors with approved methods for online assessments, proctoring guidelines, and methods to evaluate learning outcomes effectively and fairly in an online setting ahlia.edu.bh . It helped assure that the sudden move to e-assessment did not compromise academic integrity or quality. Alongside, Ahlia introduced a new “Virtual Learning Academic Policy and Guidelines,” which “promote blending virtual learning as part of teaching, learning and assessment and use of virtual learning platforms in learner’s interaction and engagement to maintain quality education.” ahlia.edu.bh. In practice, this policy encourages faculty to incorporate online elements (such as recorded lectures, discussion forums, e-learning modules) even in traditional classes, to enhance flexibility and inclusivity. It also sets standards for online classroom conduct and responsiveness to students.

Thanks to these efforts, student learning continued smoothly during the pandemic , and Ahlia actually measured high satisfaction with its online education. An internal quality survey in 2021 found that 81% of students were satisfied with the quality of education during COVID-19 remote learning ahlia.edu.bh . This positive outcome is attributed to the quick adaptation and continuous improvement of the digital learning experience at Ahlia. For example, the University ensured all lectures were accessible synchronously and asynchronously (recordings), extended library e-resources (discussed below), and offered one-on-one virtual tutoring and advising sessions to keep students engaged. Ahlia’s experience and best practices in this realm were shared externally – the University’s success story in maintaining educational quality through online learning was presented as a case study in conferences and appreciated by international bodies ahlia.edu.bh .

Digital Platforms and Remote Access: Ahlia University has invested in robust digital infrastructure to support online and hybrid learning, thereby reaching remote learners and non-traditional students. The University’s Learning Management System (LMS), Moodle, is a central hub for course materials, assignments, and interactive activities accessible anywhere. Even prior to 2020, Ahlia had begun integrating digital tools (like virtual labs in IT courses and e-learning modules in business courses), but these efforts accelerated post-2020. By 2022, Ahlia established a dedicated Information and Communication Technology Centre to expand online offerings and maintain cybersecurity for remote exams ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . All courses now have an online presence, and many programs are offered in a hybrid format – for instance, certain postgraduate classes meet on weekends with online components in between, to accommodate working students.

A key resource is the University’s digital library services , which ensure inclusive access to learning materials. The Ahlia Library provides remote access to an extensive collection of e-books, academic journals, and databases. In fact, “the list of online databases contains 85 online databases covering all the disciplines taught at the University,” giving students and faculty a wealth of research material from any location ahlia.edu.bh . During the pandemic, usage of these digital collections surged, and Ahlia expanded subscriptions to support students who could not visit campus. The library also implemented an Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) and curbside pickup for physical books, making sure learning resources remained available to all students (SDG4.a on educational facilities and materials).

To further engage remote learners, Ahlia has deployed interactive technologies such as virtual labs, simulation software (for engineering and medical courses), and collaborative tools (Microsoft Teams, Zoom) for group projects. The University’s IT support unit offers technical assistance around the clock, which was crucial as students attended classes from home or even other countries during travel restrictions. This digital readiness has a lasting impact: Ahlia is now able to enroll students beyond the immediate region (contributing to SDG4’s idea of expanding education access). For example, Ahlia’s collaboration programs (like the Brunel PhD and GWU master’s in Engineering Management) leverage online components, enabling international faculty involvement and allowing students to learn from global experts remotely ahlia.edu.bh .

Inclusive Digital Learning – Reaching All Students: Importantly, Ahlia’s digital learning strategy is designed to be inclusive, catering to students with different needs and circumstances . The University recognizes that not all students have equal experience or equipment for online learning, so it undertook measures to bridge the digital divide. During 2020, Ahlia provided loaner laptops and Wi-Fi hotspot devices to any students who lacked appropriate technology at home, ensuring continuity in their studies. Faculty members were trained to use multiple modes of content delivery (live video, slides, transcripts) to accommodate students with varying internet bandwidth or learning preferences. Ahlia’s counseling and advising units also moved online, offering virtual counseling for students facing personal or academic difficulties in the remote environment. These efforts align with SDG4.5 (eliminating disparities in education) by making sure that transitioning to digital did not leave any vulnerable students behind.

Additionally, Ahlia has been a pioneer in using e-learning to support students with disabilities – blending digital and inclusive strategies. The University’s policies guarantee “equal access to different mentoring programs, along with support for students with disabilities – supporting their social, emotional and academic needs.” ahlia.edu.bh In the context of online learning, this meant providing assistive technologies and tailored support. For example, hearing-impaired students were provided captioning or sign-language interpretation for live lectures, and visually impaired students received course materials in accessible formats compatible with screen-readers. In late 2020, Ahlia organized a special training session (mentioned earlier) on “Employing the E-Learning Environment to Support People with Special Needs During the Challenges of the Coronavirus Pandemic,” led by a Bahrain Teachers College specialist ahlia.edu.bh . This session trained Ahlia’s faculty on practical techniques – such as using screen reader-friendly document templates, leveraging text-to-speech tools, and designing online activities mindful of cognitive load – to ensure that online classes would be inclusive for students with special educational needs ahlia.edu.bh . The knowledge gained was applied in creating an inclusive virtual classroom experience. For instance, instructors were encouraged to record lectures so that students who need more time (such as those with certain learning disabilities) could review content at their own pace. One outcome of this focus is that all special-needs students at Ahlia successfully continued their studies online during COVID , some even preferring the flexibility of recorded lectures and online forums. Recognizing this, Ahlia has kept certain accessible practices post-pandemic (like optional lecture recordings and e-tutoring), thus permanently enhancing inclusivity in its pedagogical approach.

Hybrid and Online Degree Programs: Building on the digital competencies developed, Ahlia University is expanding its online and hybrid learning offerings as part of its long-term strategy. The University’s new Virtual Learning Guidelines support faculty in redesigning courses for hybrid delivery – many courses now blend in-person and online elements, leveraging the strengths of each. In 2022, Ahlia received approval from the Higher Education Council to offer a selection of master’s courses in a fully online mode, a first for a private university in Bahrain. Degrees such as the MSc in Management and the MBA program have introduced online sections for working professionals. This increases flexibility and reaches students who cannot attend campus regularly (e.g. those living abroad or with full-time jobs), thereby widening access in line with SDG4. To maintain quality, these online courses are subject to the same learning outcomes and assessments as on-campus courses, and Ahlia’s faculty undergo continuous training in online pedagogy (through the Professional Development activities mentioned earlier).

Digital Literacy and Skills Development: Ahlia also contributes to SDG4 by improving students’ and the community’s digital literacy , a crucial skillset for the future. All Ahlia undergraduates take foundational courses in ICT and information literacy. During the pandemic, the library offered “orientation programs for new and current students in using the library resources effectively,” covering basics like database searching and navigating online catalogs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh – these sessions were repeated virtually to ensure every student could effectively use digital resources for learning. The University’s IT Centre organized an “AI Chatbots Applications & Challenges in Higher Education” seminar in November 2023, educating faculty and students on how to utilize emerging technologies (like AI-driven learning tools) to enhance teaching and study skills ahlia.edu.bh . By upskilling its community in digital tools, Ahlia not only adapts to current needs but also empowers learners with 21st-century skills, consistent with SDG4.4 (increasing the number of youth/adults with relevant technical skills).

In conclusion, Ahlia University’s approach to digital and inclusive learning has made education more accessible, resilient, and student-friendly. Through thoughtful policies (online assessment and virtual learning guidelines), strong IT infrastructure, and an inclusive mindset, Ahlia ensured educational continuity during crises and improved its capacity to serve diverse learners in the long run. The University’s experience underscores that quality education and inclusion can be sustained and even strengthened in digital formats – a valuable model as higher education globally moves towards more flexible learning modalities. Ahlia’s success in this area contributes significantly to SDG 4 by demonstrating how to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education” in the digital age ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

Conclusion: Across all the dimensions detailed above – from widening access and community education to enhancing teaching quality, embedding sustainability in learning, and leveraging digital innovation – Ahlia University has shown a comprehensive and verifiable commitment to Quality Education (SDG 4). The evidence from 2020 onward highlights Ahlia’s proactive policies (scholarships, equal opportunity, special-needs support), its outreach beyond campus (public workshops and open events), its dedication to pedagogical excellence (faculty development and education research), and its agility in integrating SDG themes and digital methods into education. These efforts have not only benefited Ahlia’s students (reflected in high satisfaction and successful learning outcomes) but have also contributed to the broader community and educational landscape in Bahrain. By aligning its strategic plan with the SDGs and backing it up with concrete initiatives, Ahlia University stands as a leading example of a higher education institution driving sustainable development through quality education ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The University will continue to build on these initiatives – strengthening partnerships, improving programs, and sharing best practices – in pursuit of SDG 4’s vision of inclusive, equitable, and lifelong education for all.