Minister Tawfiqi: Partnership with Youth Is Key to National Prosperity

Bahrain is reinforcing its commitment to youth empowerment as a cornerstone of national development. Her Excellency Ms. Rawan bint Najib Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, shared Bahrain’s vision for nurturing young leaders during a high-level dialogue at the Global Government Summit in the United Arab Emirates.

Titled “Is the Next Generation More Ready Than We Think? Towards a Generation That Shapes the Future”, the session explored how young people can take on leadership roles and actively contribute to society. Minister Tawfiqi was joined in discussion by His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs.

Speaking at the session, Minister Tawfiqi highlighted that Bahrain’s youth empowerment initiatives are undergoing a rapid transformation. “Our approach goes beyond preparing young people for the future. It engages them as active partners today, placing them at the heart of decision-making and national development,” she explained.

She emphasized that young people are not merely potential but a powerful leadership force capable of driving meaningful change. The minister also noted that the challenge is not the abilities of youth, but whether national strategies can match their ambitions. Entrusting them with major national responsibilities, she said, has proven an effective strategy in overcoming challenges.

Minister Tawfiqi highlighted the success of the national project “Lama’a”, launched in 2020 under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The program identifies and nurtures young leaders, equipping them to contribute to Bahrain’s development. Over 70% of Lama’a graduates have shown notable career progress in public and private sectors, with many taking on leadership roles in youth councils and national institutions.

She also stressed that cultivating adaptability, resilience, and a sense of hope are key to preparing young leaders in a rapidly changing world. Programs focus on building trust, support, and security for youth while empowering them to take responsibility.

Concluding the dialogue, Minister Tawfiqi affirmed that the Kingdom’s strategy relies on clear vision and meaningful opportunities for youth. “Partnership with our young people and empowering them to lead is the surest path to building a brighter, more prosperous future for Bahrain,” she said.