Ahlia University undertakes institutionally planned educational outreach beyond campus through community partnerships, school engagement, public and professional learning events, regional cultural activity, online knowledge exchange and supervised student participation. Dated 2024 evidence confirms delivery in hotels, a hospital-led community campaign, a regional cultural society and online settings, while the University’s Community Engagement Plan, committee structure and recurring event series demonstrate that outreach is programmed rather than occasional.

1. Direct answer and classification

Ahlia University answers this indicator in the affirmative. Educational outreach beyond campus is a standing institutional function implemented through planned extension activities and responsive one-off opportunities. The programmed classification is established by the University’s multi-year Community Engagement Plan, the Community Engagement Committee, defined coordination responsibilities and repeated event series. Ad hoc delivery is demonstrated through individual faculty lectures, partner-led awareness activities and online sessions developed in response to specific community interests.

Public evidence: E01 | E02 | E03

1.1 Institutional purpose

The University’s approach connects educational institutions with communities and public bodies. It transfers knowledge beyond formal degree programmes, raises awareness of social, cultural, health, economic and technological issues, prepares students for civic leadership and creates channels through which community partners can contribute needs, proposals and expertise. The result is a two-way model of education and engagement rather than a collection of isolated promotional visits.

Public evidence: E02 | E03 | E04

Community Engagement

Knowledge Exchange

2. A systematic university-wide outreach framework

Community engagement is embedded in Ahlia University’s mission, strategic objectives and operational planning. The public Community Engagement Policy identifies service to Bahraini and Gulf communities, educational empowerment, community-based research, access and inclusion, partnership with public bodies, global citizenship and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as institutional priorities. The Community Engagement Direction for 2021–2025 continues the earlier EMPOWER Plan and integrates outreach with teaching, research and community engagement.

Public evidence: E02 | E03

2.1 Governance and coordination

A standing Community Engagement Committee ensures systematic planning, coordination and implementation. Its membership joins the University’s marketing and public-relations function, Entrepreneurship Centre, Student Services and Activities, Professional Relations, Human Resources and faculty representatives. This structure enables outreach to draw on academic expertise, student leadership, professional networks and community partners across the University.

Public evidence: E02

2.2 Planned extension and knowledge exchange

The Community Engagement Plan expressly commits Ahlia University to planned extension programmes and services, community relationships, participative community-based research, entrepreneurship education, mentoring, volunteering, civic duty and global citizenship. The public Knowledge Exchange page identifies community engagement as a core University function and records collaboration among colleges, deanships and directorates in implementation and reporting.

Public evidence: E03

2.3 Community access to institutional support

Residents, citizens and community organisations are invited to propose projects and events directly to Ahlia University. The University also offers its premises free of charge for approved community-based events. This open proposal route reinforces the reciprocal character of the programme: outreach priorities can arise from community needs as well as University initiatives.

Public evidence: E02

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

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1006478579735750&set=pcb.

Ahlia University participates in the universities exhibition at the Alumni Club

https://www.linkedin.com/school/ahlia-university/posts/

’ 

A University Exhibition and an Accompanying Panel Discussion

https://www.instagram.com/p/CwIElh6M2Dv/

"Under the patronage of the Minister of Education and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Higher Education Council, Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Al-Bilad newspaper organized a university exhibition and an accompanying panel discussion. The event was attended by university presidents and leaders of higher education institutions. It took place on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at the Seef Complex in Manama.

On behalf of the minister, Dr. Diana Abdul Karim Al-Juhrami, the Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council, inaugurated the Al-Bilad University Exhibition. The panel discussion focused on the topic of artificial intelligence as one of the university disciplines that provides promising job opportunities in the job market.

The exhibition is open today, Saturday, at the Seef Complex (Gate No. 1)."

Ahlia University platform is located in the Dhahran Complex in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

https://www.instagram.com/p/CwXq5ylqHra/

The Al-Ahlia University platform is located in the Dhahran Complex in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We are available from Thursday to Sunday at the Dhahran Complex, near Starbucks, Gate Number 1.

The Carnival of Cars

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1011020092614932&set=pcb.1011020459281562

The participation of the National University in the carnival of cars held within the celebrations of the Ministry of Education on the anniversary of the National Action Charter

Bahrain's Sports Day

https://calendar.bh/en/sport-day-2020#:~:text=The%20Kingdom%20of%20Bahrain%20is,February%20in%20all%20GCC%20countries

The Kingdom of Bahrain organized Bahrain Sports Day on February 11, 2020, in accordance with the decision of their Highnesses Presidents of the GCC National Olympic Committee at their meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to have a national sports day in the second week. February in all GCC countries, with the participation of Ahlia’[20].

• World Diabetes Day:

The university has contributed to health awareness campaigns in the community. For example, Ahlia students participated in Bahrain’s World Diabetes Day ceremony at Princess Sabeeka Park in Awali on November 16, 2019ahlia.edu.bh. At this public event – held under the theme “Family and Diabetes” – health officials stressed prevention and the rising impact of diabetes, and Ahlia’s involvement helped spread the message on a national stageahlia.edu.bh.

World Diabetes Day

https://www.bna.bh/en/BahrainmarksWorldDiabetesDay.aspx?cms=q8FmFJgiscL2fwIzON1%2BDlinboIFyAf%2Bda5cnDj2LTw%3D

On November 16, a ceremony was held at the Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Park in Awali marking World Diabetes Day which falls on the 14th of November’[23].

The SCH chief addressed the ceremony marking World Diabetes Day, being held this year under the theme: ’Family and Diabetes’. He stressed the crucial role of the family in promoting prevention from the disease. He warned against the alarming increase of the prevalence of diabetes in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which has health, social and economic repercussions on the community and threatens national sustainable development, where the Ahlia students participated.

 

Marathon (Sport Event)

https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/marathon-sport-event/

Ahlia University wants its students and staff to lead a life of health and well-being, in this sense it develops the marathon, an activity to create spaces for physical activity 

Ahlia Outdoor Food Festival

https://www.ahlia.edu.bh/events/ahlia-outdoor-food-festival/

Event Details:

• Start Date: 23/03/2019

• Time: 05:00 PM - 11:00 PM

• Location: GOSI Mall

3. Inclusive education outreach to schools and communities

3.1 Second Forum on Integrating Students with Special Needs

On 25 September 2024, Ahlia University’s Deanship of Student Affairs organised the Second Forum on Integrating Students with Special Needs in Higher Education Institutions at the Wyndham Grand Hotel. The forum was explicitly designed to improve approaches to inclusion in schools, universities and community settings. Its educational content addressed integration strategies, the readiness and accessibility of educational facilities, preparation of teachers and staff, and the sharing of successful projects and practical experience.

Public evidence: E06 | E08

3.2 Multi-sector expertise and practical learning

The official programme demonstrates a substantial community-learning agenda. Contributors represented the Council of Representatives, National Bank of Bahrain, National Institution for Human Rights, General Directorate of Traffic, Zain Bahrain, Rotary Club of Salmaniya, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Social Development, University of Bahrain, the Bahrain Society for Parents and Friends of the Disabled, a special-education centre and Ahlia University. Sessions examined rights and access to educational facilities, inclusive workplaces, artificial intelligence for learners with disabilities, teacher preparation, neurodiversity, social inclusion and methods for integration in schools, institutes and universities.

Public evidence: E07

3.3 Programmed delivery characteristics

The event was the second edition of a named forum, was delivered by a University deanship, was hosted beyond campus and connected educational, governmental, business and civil-society expertise with school and community practice. It therefore demonstrates repeatable, planned educational outreach rather than a single internal event.

Public evidence: E06 | E07 | E08

4. Public knowledge exchange on economic and technological change

4.1 Third International Conference on Global Economic Revolutions

Ahlia University organised the Third International Conference on Global Economic Revolutions from 1 to 3 October 2024 at Wyndham Grand Manama, Bahrain Bay. The conference linked academia, industry, regulators and professional communities under the theme ‘Artificial Intelligence for Business Innovation and Economic Diversification’. The public event record invited attendance and anticipated approximately 200 participants from around the world, with international experts contributing keynote learning and discussion.

Public evidence: E09 | E11

4.2 Community and policy relevance

The completed conference was held under the patronage of Bahrain’s Minister of Education and attended by representatives of Gulf and Arab universities. It served as a platform for exchanging research, ideas and strategies on contemporary economic challenges. By bringing University research into an external venue and connecting it with government, industry and regional higher education, the conference advanced public and professional understanding of artificial intelligence, innovation, economic diversification and sustainable development.

Public evidence: E10

Under the Patronage of the Minister of Education Ahlia University Hosts the 3rd International Conference on Global Economic Revolutions

Under the patronage of the Minister of Education and with participation from several Gulf and Arab universities, Ahlia University recently held the third international conference on global economic revolutions, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence for Business Innovation and Economic Diversification”, at the Wyndham Grand Hotel in Bahrain Bay.

The Conference was attended by H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Higher Education Council, along with representatives from numerous Gulf and Arab universities.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Abdulla Yousif Al-Hawaj, Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ahlia University, expressed his gratitude to the Minister for his presence. He highlighted the University’s commitment since its establishment to staying ahead of the rapidly changing technological and educational landscape, ensuring that students are well-equipped to thrive in the modern workforce.

Ahlia University President, Prof. Mansoor Alaali, described the conference as a key platform for exchanging ideas and strategies to address contemporary economic challenges. He thanked the scholars, academics, and experts who contributed to its success, particularly those who presented research papers.

Dr. Abdulmuttaleb Al-Sartawi, Chairperson of Accounting Finance & Banking Department, and CEO of the conference, also gave an overview of the conference objective and its sessions.

The opening session concluded with His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma honoring the conference’s strategic partners and keynote speakers.

4.3 Recurring programmed format

The third-edition status, multi-day schedule, international call, external venue, institutional organisation and structured links with regulators and industry demonstrate a recurring programmed outreach channel through which Ahlia University shares research-informed education with audiences beyond enrolled students.

Public evidence: E09 | E10 | E11

5. Tailored outreach beyond Bahrain and beyond the physical campus

5.1 Arabic-language and cultural education in Dammam

In January 2024, Ahlia University Associate Professor Dr Ali Farhan contributed to the Arabic Language Day programme organised by the Ibn Al-Muqarrab Society for Literary and Cultural Development in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The linguistic seminar explored Arabic as a language of poetry and the arts for an audience that included scholars, researchers, specialists, society members and Arabic-language enthusiasts. Independent Bahraini press coverage confirms the activity and its public cultural audience.

Public evidence: E12 | E13

Renowned Dr. Ali Farhan Participates in Arabic Language Day Celebration in Dammam

Dr. Ali Farhan, a distinguished Associate Professor of Arabic language at Ahlia University, recently took part in the vibrant festivities of the Arabic Language Day celebration held in Dammam. The event, organized by the esteemed Ibn Al-Muqarrab Society for Literary and Cultural Development, commemorated the international day dedicated to promoting the Arabic language and its rich literary and artistic heritage.

Dr. Ali Farhan commended the significant role played by the Ibn Al-Muqarrab Society in advancing literary and cultural development within Dammam. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to the society on the inauguration of its new headquarters, emphasizing his admiration for their commitment to fostering literature and culture by hosting esteemed writers, poets, and critics from both the Arabian Gulf and the broader Arab world.

The occasion marked the inaugural event at the newly established premises of the Ibn Al-Muqarrab Society, aptly named “Dhad.” Ahmed Al-Luaym, the CEO of the society, warmly welcomed a distinguished gathering of scholars, researchers, and experts in the Arabic language, literature, and arts.

During the event, Al-Luaym expertly moderated a linguistic seminar centered on this year’s theme for the International Day of the Arabic Language: “Arabic Language: Language of Poetry and Arts.” Esteemed speakers included Dr. Ali Farhan from Ahlia University and Jasim Al-Mashrafi, both esteemed members of the society. Their insightful contributions shed light on the pivotal role of the Arabic language in poetry and the arts. The seminar was followed by a captivating poetry evening, wherein the renowned poets Dr. Abdullah Al-Khudair and Hussain Al-Ammar enthralled the audience with their profound and beautiful verses.

In addition to society members, the event attracted a distinguished audience of Arabic language enthusiasts who expressed their deep appreciation and admiration for the Ibn Al-Muqarrab Society’s exceptional efforts in serving the language and literature.

The Ibn Al-Muqarrab Society for Literary and Cultural Development stands as the official extension of the Ibn Al-Muqarrab Literary Forum in Dammam, representing the first society dedicated to literary and cultural development in the Eastern Province and the second society of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

5.2 Regional literary participation

Ahlia University’s Centre for Arabic Language and Middle Eastern Studies delivered the second edition of its short-story writing competition at Arab-region level in 2024. The programme invited university students across countries to produce original Arabic writing and provided a digitally accessible participation route. It extended the University’s educational and cultural mission to a regional learner community outside its own enrolment.

Public evidence: E15

2nd Short Story Writing Competition

5.3 Remote learning with a national public-sector partner

On 28 July 2024, the Directorate of Student Counseling and Advising delivered an online lecture on applications of artificial intelligence in the security field in collaboration with the General Directorate of Traffic at Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior. The Microsoft Teams format removed the requirement for physical campus attendance, while the tailored lecture translated academic knowledge into public-security applications including prediction, prevention and operational effectiveness.

Public evidence: E16

6. Student-led and supervised community schemes

6.1 Institutional support for student participation

Student participation is supported through the Directorate of Student Services and Activities and the elected Student Council. The Directorate coordinates and advertises activities, while the Student Council has a formal role in selecting and coordinating them. The Council’s stated purposes include leadership development, awareness of rights and responsibilities, science and cultural activities, collaboration and teamwork. These arrangements provide an institutional route through which students can contribute to outreach and volunteering.

Public evidence: E04

Directorate of Student Services & Activities

6.2 Mental-health awareness in the wider community

In October 2024, an Ahlia University student team, supervised by the Director of Counseling and Advising, participated in the fifth ‘It’s Okay’ competition hosted by Silwan Psychiatric Hospital. The wider campaign promotes mental-health awareness among young people and university students, challenges stigma and misconceptions, encourages help-seeking and supports public and private institutions in advocating for mental-health care. Ahlia students’ supervised participation demonstrates student engagement in a recurring community health-education initiative beyond campus.

Public evidence: E14

6.3 Student-led sustainability outreach

The Ahlia Sustainability Club is a standing student-led organisation aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Its public remit includes awareness campaigns, educational workshops, projects affecting the local environment, collaboration with external partners, engagement with local communities, outreach programmes and participation in regional sustainability initiatives. This structure sustains voluntary student-led education beyond individual events.

Public evidence: E05

6.4 Community social-tolerance campaign

Ahlia’s Together S.A.F.E. campaign provides a documented outreach precedent at Bahrain International Circuit. The campaign team used the external public setting to promote love, peace and social tolerance to the whole community. It illustrates how Ahlia initiatives are taken beyond campus to deliver focused social-awareness messages.

Public evidence: E17

7. School engagement and community co-production

7.1 Direct engagement with secondary schools

Ahlia University’s public Knowledge Exchange record documents direct visits to Al-Fateh Secondary School for Boys and Shaikh Abdullah Bin Isa Al Khalifa Industrial High School for Boys. These visits form part of the University’s wider engagement with prospective learners and school communities, helping pupils understand higher-education pathways and strengthening relationships between schools and the University.

Public evidence: E03 | E20 | E21

7.2 Civil-society consultation

Ahlia University also maintains a recurring consultative relationship with civil, charity, professional and social organisations. Its eleventh consultative meeting was held beyond campus at the Gulf Hotel and addressed cooperation in education, research and training opportunities, particularly for young people. The repeated meeting series shows how community organisations participate in shaping and extending the University’s educational contribution.

Public evidence: E18

7.3 Partnership model

Across the reporting-year activities, outreach was delivered with schools, public authorities, hospitals, businesses, civil-society organisations, cultural associations and other universities. These partnerships broaden the audience for Ahlia University’s academic expertise and allow educational content to respond to identified needs in inclusion, mental health, language and culture, public security, technology, economic development and sustainability.

Public evidence: E02 | E06 | E07 | E09 | E12 | E14 | E16 | E18

8. Programmed and ad hoc outreach map

The following record brings together the principal delivery channels evidenced in this submission. It demonstrates activity beyond Ahlia University’s campus, the breadth of community audiences and the coexistence of recurring programmes with responsive one-off engagements.

Public evidence: E06 | E09 | E12 | E14 | E15 | E16 | E17 | E20 | E21

8.1 Educational fields addressed

• Inclusive education, accessibility, teacher preparation and support for learners with disabilities.

• Artificial intelligence, business innovation, economic diversification and public-security applications.

• Arabic language, literature, poetry, arts and creative writing.

• Mental-health literacy, stigma reduction and encouragement to seek professional support.

• Environmental stewardship, social responsibility, volunteering, peace and social tolerance.

9. Continuing programmed outreach

Ahlia University’s delivery continued after the 2024 reporting year. The Eighth Equal Opportunities Conference, held on 12–13 February 2025 at Wyndham Grand Bahrain Bay, convened academics, professionals, researchers and policymakers to exchange knowledge on responsible innovation, Society 5.0, sustainable practices, digital transformation, gender equality and the Sustainable Development Goals. The eighth-edition format and external venue confirm the continuity of recurring public and professional knowledge exchange.

Public evidence: E19 — Continuity evidence following the 2024 reporting year

9.1 Institutional conclusion

Ahlia University undertakes educational outreach beyond campus through a coherent institutional programme. The University’s multi-year plan, standing committee, school engagement, civil-society consultation, recurring off-campus forums and conferences, regional cultural programmes, virtual lectures and supported student initiatives establish programmed delivery. Faculty contributions and targeted partner activities add an ad hoc capacity that enables the University to respond to particular community opportunities and needs.

Accordingly, Ahlia University’s response to THE Indicator 4.3.4 is: YES — PROGRAMMED, WITH COMPLEMENTARY AD HOC DELIVERY.

Public evidence: E02 | E03 | E06 | E07 | E09 | E10 | E12 | E14 | E15 | E16

10. Evidence register

Each entry below links directly to the original public source supporting the institutional framework, reporting-year activity, delivery classification, community audience or continuity described in this submission.

10.1 Reporting-year activities and continuity