Bahrain Unveils Major Initiatives to Align Education with Labour Market Needs

The Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, held a meeting to review several national initiatives and strategic reports. The session was attended by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Council, President of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, along with council members.

HH Shaikh Nasser stressed the Council’s commitment to developing comprehensive and sustainable youth and sports policies. He emphasized the importance of initiatives that enhance the skills of Bahraini youth and channel their energy towards serving the nation and strengthening Bahrain’s regional and international standing.

During the meeting, Legal Affairs Minister Yusuf bin Abdulhussain Khalaf presented the results of a study on university seat allocations. The findings highlighted the need to better align education outcomes with labor market requirements, with a focus on high-demand specializations. The study also recommended reviewing academic program standards and conducting feasibility assessments before approval.

Among the proposals was the introduction of a transitional year between high school and university to help students better understand their academic and career interests, alongside strengthening early career guidance and ensuring that labor market data is regularly updated. HH Shaikh Nasser directed that these recommendations be submitted to the Minister of Education and Chairman of the Higher Education Council for further review.

Education Minister Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma also presented the Sports Schools Project for the 2025–2026 academic year. The initiative will dedicate a specific sport to each school, with integrated training and education programs aimed at developing both academic and athletic skills. The project seeks to foster physical and mental growth in students, promote balanced nutrition, and make use of existing school facilities, ensuring inclusive participation for both genders across all educational zones.

HH Shaikh Nasser praised the project, describing it as a strategic step toward building a generation capable of excelling academically and athletically, and urged joint efforts to ensure its success.

Meanwhile, Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chairman Sameer Abdulla Nass presented the fourth edition of the “Try Working” community partnership program, which gives school students aged 15–18 hands-on experience in private sector companies. Training areas include stock investment, engineering and technology innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship, and content creation. The program aims to enhance creativity, entrepreneurial thinking, and workplace readiness. The Council encouraged expanding the program to involve more participants, making it a national model for youth empowerment.

The Ministry of Works also highlighted its youth initiatives, noting the creation of an Innovation and Excellence Committee to strengthen the role of young employees in workplace development and decision-making. The Ministry underlined its commitment to building communication channels between leadership and young professionals, fostering an environment of creativity, and preparing youth to play a central role in future government work.

The Council commended the Ministry of Works for being the first government body to establish a youth committee, urging other ministries and institutions to adopt similar initiatives to empower young people and support their ambitions.