Innovation strategy, digital leadership

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has marked a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the completion of six initiatives under the National Digital Economy Strategy (NDES), reinforcing the Kingdom’s leadership in digital innovation and government service enhancement.

His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, Chief Executive of the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), said the initiatives reflect His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s vision to harness advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), as a cornerstone for modernising government services.

“These initiatives are a reflection of the government’s vision to apply the highest digital standards, foster digital investment, and keep pace with the latest technologies available,” Al Qaed said.

Aim

Guided by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Bahrain’s digital strategy aims to drive sustainable growth and economic prosperity.

“Our strategy ensures integration across government entities and sectors while advancing digital transformation to enhance key services for the public,” Al Qaed noted.

The first phase of NDES encompasses nine short-term initiatives out of 49 planned through 2030.

Projects

Among the completed projects is the establishment of the Innovation and Advanced Technologies Directorate within iGA, serving as an official AI and emerging technologies unit.

The Directorate develops emerging technology policies and supports government entities in adopting AI for national projects.

Another key initiative is the expansion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) scholarships, led by the Ministry of Education, which accounted for over 84% of total scholarships in the 2023/2024 academic year.