The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain and Royal Life Saving Bahrain (RLSB) renewed their agreement to advance life-saving training and community volunteering for medical and nursing students. Building on the initial partnership established in 2021, the renewal follows the development of 196 student volunteer lifesavers who have collectively contributed more than 2,000 hours of service since 2022.

The renewed agreement was signed at the University’s campus by Her Highness Shaikha Nayla bint Hamad bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Chairperson and Founder of Royal Life Saving Bahrain, and Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, in the presence of senior management from both organisations.

Through the collaboration, over 200 students underwent practical training in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), emergency response and water safety with those completing the required training and certification applying their skills through volunteering.

Student volunteers have supported RLSB by contributing to public CPR education, assisted instructors during courses and RLSB’s Rookie Beach Lifesaving Club, provided first aid cover at public events, as well as provided water-safety cover at triathlons and other swimming events across Bahrain. 

Her Highness Shaikha Nayla bint Hamad bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said: “Volunteers are central to our mission of preventing drowning and promoting the safe enjoyment of Bahrain’s waters. Our partnership with RCSI Medical University of Bahrain has helped build a dedicated team of volunteer lifesavers whose contribution supports both public education and safety at events across the Kingdom. We look forward to building on this collaboration and enabling more future doctors and nurses to apply their expertise in support of a safer Bahrain for all.”

Professor Otoom commented: “We extend our sincere appreciation to Her Highness Shaikha Nayla bint Hamad bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and the Royal Life Saving Bahrain team for their continued collaboration with RCSI Medical University of Bahrain. By connecting practical training with community service, this partnership enables our students to apply their learning beyond the clinical setting while developing a deeper understanding of their responsibility towards others. Such experiences are integral to preparing compassionate doctors and nurses who are equipped to respond to the needs of the communities they serve.”

Through partnerships with national initiatives and organisations, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain extends the reach of its community service, combining expertise and resources to make a meaningful contribution to the health and wellbeing of communities across Bahrain.