The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) - Medical University of Bahrain marked Bahraini Women’s Day by celebrating the achievements of women across the University and reaffirming its commitment to the national plan led by the Supreme Council for Women.

The celebration took place in the presence of Dr Farzana Abdulkareem Al Sayed, Consultant Neurologist, and Dr May Ebrahim Matar, Consultant Musculoskeletal Radiologist, newly appointed members of the Supreme Council for Women, who joined the University staff and leadership on this important occasion. Their participation underscored the shared commitment to empowering Bahraini women whose contributions continue to shape the Kingdom of Bahrain’s future across all sectors, including higher education and healthcare.

The University has made sustained progress in the employment of Bahraini women, alongside a clear rise in their influence within middle management and leadership roles, which reflects a strategic focus on inclusive recruitment, high-quality professional development, and employment pathways toward long-term careers in academia, research and professional services.

Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, commented: “Bahraini Women’s Day is an occasion of genuine pride for our University and for the Kingdom of Bahrain. We believe that the contribution of women is central to the University’s standing and is a testament to the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa and the enduring support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King of Bahrain and President of the Supreme Council for Women. We remain committed to ensuring that women at RCSI Medical University of Bahrain are supported in their professional endeavours.”

Led by the Equal Opportunities Committee, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain also announced the introduction of three workplace policies designed to enhance wellbeing, equity and support for female colleagues. This initiative, supported by the Human Resources department, aims to sustain and retain female talent, strengthen workplace wellbeing for colleagues experiencing perimenopause or menopause, and enable greater flexibility and support for new parents.

Professor Ghufran Jassim, Head of Department and Associate Professor of Family Medicine added: “Bahraini Women’s Day is an important celebration to honour the remarkable women who contribute to the University’s mission. The new policies contribute to creating an environment where women feel supported, empowered, and able to thrive at every stage of their personal and professional lives. We are proud to contribute to Bahrain’s national vision by adopting progressive practices that champion gender equality, wellbeing, and inclusion.”

RCSI Medical University of Bahrain is committed to advancing leadership diversity and women’s employment in line with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.