Arab Students Access China’s MIT

TDT | Manama

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Six students from Arab League nations have been awarded places at China’s top-ranked Tsinghua University through a landmark new scholarship programme, marking the first time the prestigious institution has offered a dedicated scholarship exclusively for Arab students.

The Hazem Ben- Gacem Arab Scholars Program, officially launched at a ceremony in Beijing on Monday, will support up to 15 students each year over the next five years for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

Tsinghua, widely regarded as the “MIT of China,” is known for its elite engineering and technology programmes and its alumni include many of China’s current leaders.

Historic initiative

The scholarship was launched in the presence of diplomats and senior officials, including Bahrain’s Ambassador to China, H.E. Dr Mohamed Shaikho and Professor Yang Bin, Vice Chancellor of the Tsinghua University Council.

Organisers say the initiative aims to promote academic excellence, build cross-cultural ties, and enhance the strategic relationship between China and the Arab world.

“This programme reflects more than just academic support,” said Hazem Ben-Gacem, the founder of the scholarship and Chief Executive of BlueFive Capital. “For more than a thousand years, the Arab region and China have been bound by a vibrant exchange of goods, knowledge, and cultural dialogue. We aim to cultivate leaders who will carry forward this agelong spirit of curiosity and collaboration.”

Ben-Gacem, who formerly served as co-CEO of Investcorp, has previously established scholarships at Harvard, Oxford, and other top global institutions.

His latest effort is seen as part of a growing trend of Arab investment in education diplomacy and global talent development.

Shared values

Tsinghua University officials described the programme as a milestone in the institution’s global engagement.

“This initiative not only motivates recipients to pursue academic excellence but also strengthens the friendship between Tsinghua and the Arab world,” said Professor Yang. “It embodies the shared values of openness, inclusiveness, mutual respect, and the pursuit of common progress.”

Established in 1911, Tsinghua has 20 colleges and 90 undergraduate programmes.