The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain reaffirms its strategic focus on nurturing national talent by expanding opportunities for Bahraini staff to pursue postgraduate qualifications and advance their professional development.

Since the establishment of its Professional Development Unit (PDU) in 2014, the University has strategically invested in providing Bahraini talent with academic and professional development opportunities, empowering them to contribute to the Kingdom’s evolving healthcare and education landscape.

Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, stated: “On the occasion of Bahrain National Day, we want to acknowledge with pride the achievements of our Bahraini colleagues, whose dedication continues to enrich our University experience and advance academic, scientific and professional fields. In alignment with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain places the development of national talent at the centre of the University’s sustainable progress.”

Over the past decade, nine Bahraini staff members have successfully completed their Master’s or PhD degrees with the support of the Professional Development Unit (PDU), while a further six staff members are currently pursuing postgraduate studies across a range of disciplines. These achievements reflect the University’s sustained commitment to fostering national talent and supporting the academic and professional growth of its Bahraini workforce.

With Bahraini nationals representing 50% of the University’s full-time workforce, staff benefit from a comprehensive range of Continuous Professional Development programmes. These include enhanced training delivered in partnership with Tamkeen, focusing on upskilling and reskilling, leadership development, and expanding opportunities for Bahraini women to advance in both academic and professional roles.

The impact of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain’s commitment to staff development is evident in the achievements of Bahraini colleagues whose postgraduate studies are enhancing their professional capabilities and contributing meaningfully to the University.

Dr Noura Salman, Lecturer in Clinical Simulation and recent MSc graduate from the University of Edinburgh, noted: “Pursuing my MSc in Clinical Education allowed me to enhance my teaching practice through evidence-based methods, strengthen my contribution to curriculum development, and create more engaging learning experiences for our students. This qualification also enriched my research contributions and strengthened my role in advancing clinical education excellence at the University.”

Dr Eman Fateel, Lecturer in Nursing and Nursing Year 2 Director, who earned her Professional Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Portsmouth in 2023, added:“Driven by a passion for lifelong learning and a commitment to empowering nursing education in Bahrain, I pursued my PhD to explore innovative ways to integrate technology into higher education and strengthen teaching practices. This qualification has enhanced my academic leadership and enabled me to contribute more effectively to the University’s mission of advancing excellence in education, research, and professional practice, while inspiring students and colleagues to embrace innovation in teaching and learning.”

Currently a doctoral candidate in Business Administration at Glasgow Caledonian University, Mr Mohamed Abdulla Khamis, Head of Estates & Support Services highlighted the value of his studies to the University’s operational advancement: “This journey enables me to engage with emerging academic insights while contributing my operational experience, creating a meaningful two-way exchange of knowledge and innovation. It strengthens my ability to translate research into practical strategies that enhance efficiency, sustainability and user experience across our campus. By aligning these efforts with the University’s commitment to innovation and excellence, I aim to support the development of a smart, sustainable, and resilient campus for current and future learners and educators.”

Through sustained investment in professional development opportunities, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to empowering Bahraini professionals and contributing to the Kingdom’s vision for a future-ready workforce within a knowledge-based economy and future.