Bahrain Strengthens Partnership with University of North Carolina

Lieutenant General His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, received this morning Professor David Wyrick, Head of the Delegation from the University of North Carolina, USA, and the International Organization for the Prevention of Violence and Addiction (DARE), in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs and Chairman of the Committee for Combating Violence and Addiction “Ma’an.”

At the start of the meeting, the Minister praised the ongoing collaboration with the University of North Carolina and DARE in developing the “Ma’an” program, which is recognized as one of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s leading community security initiatives. He emphasized its critical role in protecting youth from the risks of violence and addiction while promoting positive behavioral patterns. The Minister highlighted the importance of continuing this research partnership for its significant impact on enhancing the program’s methodology and improving operational mechanisms.

His Excellency received a copy of a scientific research paper submitted to the International Journal of Public Health, which represents one of the outcomes of this collaborative effort, commending such initiatives for their contribution to academic and practical advancements. The meeting also reviewed the results of the third phase of the joint study conducted by the university team and the “Ma’an” Regional Research and Training Center on peaceful coexistence and countering extremism. The findings revealed notable positive indicators, marking an important step toward promoting a culture of moderation within educational and community settings. The Minister stressed the need to continue and expand the study to achieve even greater outcomes.

Professor David Wyrick, for his part, expressed his gratitude to the Minister for supporting the ongoing cooperation between the university and the “Ma’an” center in conducting academic research and studies. He also praised the “Ma’an” program as a global model in security awareness and community partnership.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Ali Ahmed Amini, Director of the Crime Prevention Department and Director of the “Ma’an” program.