In line with Bahraini Women’s Day celebrated on December 1st, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to cultivating a culture defined by equity, integrity and opportunity. As the University evolves, guided by ethical leadership, participatory decision-making, and transparent policy development, we continue to strengthen the structures that enable colleagues to progress and lead.

RCSI Medical University of Bahrain has made sustained progress in the employment of females, accompanied by a clear rise in their influence within middle management and leadership roles, reflecting our strategic emphasis on inclusive recruitment, professional development, and pathways toward long-term careers in academia, research, and professional services.

Throughout the 2024–25 academic year, the composition of our staff body has continued to shift in meaningful and measurable ways, with females now constituting 66 per cent of our full-time personnel. More than 70 per cent of colleagues who have joined the University since January 2024 are female, reflecting sustained progress in our recruitment practices. 

This growth is further supported by a strong commitment to academic and professional advancement within RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, with many female colleagues pursuing postgraduate qualifications or recognised professional pathways. Our leadership profile continues to develop in parallel, as females now hold 43 per cent of senior academic posts, contributing significantly to the shaping of our academic direction and institutional priorities.

Formed in 2023, the Equal Opportunities Committee has introduced and overseen policies and measures that embed inclusion and fairness across the University's operations. Through its initiatives, females now represent more than 65 per cent of our overall staff body and 60 per cent of our people managers. Their contributions across teaching, clinical practice, research and professional services continue to strengthen our mission and elevate our role within the healthcare education sector.

Reflecting on these developments, Mr Gary Brady, Head of Human Resources and Chair of the Equal Opportunities Committee, highlights: “Through the introduction of progressive policies, the implementation of equitable practices and the development of long-term career pathways, we are strengthening a University culture in which gender equity is firmly embedded in our structures and reflected in our leadership. These efforts are integral to our strategic direction and position RCSI Medical University of Bahrain among the leading institutions for inclusive and progressive employment practices.”

Our commitment to gender equity is further reflected in the introduction of enhanced family-friendly policies. The revised Maternity Leave Policy offers extended fully paid leave, optional unpaid extensions, continued accrual of benefits and a structured return-to-work plan, ensuring that women can maintain career continuity during a pivotal life stage.

The University has also introduced an updated Paternity Leave Policy, offering enhanced support for fathers. This development strengthens our commitment to an inclusive working culture that recognises and respects the responsibilities of all parents.

A further milestone is the introduction of the Change of Life Policy (Peri/Menopause) offering practical adjustments, confidential avenues for support, access to wellbeing resources and clear guidance for managers. Together, all initiatives reflect a unified commitment to the wellbeing, progression and empowerment of our staff body. 

While creating a professional environment in which all colleagues are empowered to manage personal responsibilities with career aspirations, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain remains committed to advancing women’s employment, leadership diversity and inclusive practice in line with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.