SDG 17.2.1
Relationships with regional NGOs and government for SDG Policy
The University Ranks 25th Among Top Arab Universities in QS Arab University Rankings for 2025
The University has proudly maintained its position as the 25th-ranked institution in the QS Arab University Rankings for 2025, reinforcing its status as a leading private university in Bahrain and a prominent educational institution in the region. This achievement highlights the university’s consistent dedication to academic excellence and its growing influence on regional and international stages.
Prof Waheeb Al-Khaja, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, congratulated Prof Hatem Masri, the University President, and all members of the university for their unwavering efforts in enhancing academic standards and producing graduates who meet the needs of both public and private sectors. He emphasized that this accomplishment will have a lasting positive impact on the university and its students’ educational outcomes.
Prof Hatem Masri expressed his gratitude to Mr. Sameer Nass, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Prof Waheeb Al-Khaja, along with all board members, for their support. He emphasized that the university’s strong ranking is a result of its collaborative efforts with partners at both regional and global levels and its alignment with the needs of the local and regional labor markets. He also thanked the Supreme Council for the Development of Education and Training, the Ministry of Education, and the Higher Education Council for their continuous support in advancing educational standards in Bahrain.
Dr. Mohamed Youssef, Vice President for Administration, Finance, and Community Engagement, also shared his pride in the university’s top-25 ranking, noting that this milestone aligns with the university’s mission to establish itself as a leading private higher education institution in the Arab world.
Representing the university at the official QS ranking ceremony in Jordan, Prof Masri and Dr. Mohamed Youssef underscored the importance of this achievement, marking the university’s significant progress in rising from 45th place in 2019 to 25th in 2025.
The QS ranking, one of the top three university rankings globally, is published by Quacquarelli Symonds and assesses thousands of universities worldwide, reflecting a credible benchmark of academic quality and institutional progress. This recognition not only highlights Applied Science University’s commitment to excellence but also underscores its steady progress and growing influence in the field of higher education.
The University Continues Its Excellence on the Global Rankings Scale and Secures the 539th Position Globally According to the QS World University Rankings 2025
In a new achievement and a remarkable progress in its global ranking, the University secured the 539th place among the best 1,503 universities included in the ranking from around the world for the year 2025. Thus, the University becomes the highest-ranked in the Kingdom of Bahrain, surpassing many prestigious Arab and international universities according to the QS ranking
On this occasion, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Waheeb Al Khaja, congratulated all members of the University community on this achievement, affirming that it reflects the university’s progress and enhances its position among the leading global universities. He pointed out that the university has been keen to continue its progress in the QS ranking by strengthening its strategic operations that focus on the quality of education, scientific research, academic reputation, graduate support, sustainable development, and other indicators on which the ranking is based.
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees explained that the University has been progressing in its global ranking since 2021, where it secured the 651-700 position at that time. It then advanced to the 591-600 rank in 2022, and in the 2023 ranking, it continued its progress by securing the 561-570 position, followed by the 582nd rank in 2024. Finally, the remarkable progress in this year by securing the 539th position, thus affirming its excellence and the quality of its educational operations, as well as its distinction at the local, Arab, and global levels.
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees extended his thanks and appreciation to the Minister of Education, Chairman of the Higher Education Council His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Supreme Council for Development of Education and Training, the Higher Education Council, and the Education and Training Quality Authority for their tireless efforts in developing higher education in Bahrain and their continuous support for the educational system.
For his part, the President of the University, Prof. Hatem Masri, affirmed that the University, according to performance standards and indicators, has made progress in various fields. It has advanced in the indicators of international academic and administrative staff, international students, employer reputation, the ratio of faculty members to students, and academic reputation.
The President of the University expressed his pride in the achievements made by the university, noting that reaching this distinguished level is the result of accumulated efforts from the collective work carried out by its senior management, faculty, research, administrative staff, students, and alumni, with the aim of improving the quality of academic programs, scientific research, the university environment, and achieving global ranking standards.
In turn, Dr. Mohammed Youssif Ahmed VP for Administration, Finance and Community Engagement, expressed his happiness with the progress achieved by the university, reflecting its efforts in achieving its vision to enhance its international standing and achieve leadership in the field of education and scientific research, as well as its role in providing a stimulating and appropriate educational environment for developing skills and knowledge. He pointed out the importance of this achievement in affirming the university’s commitment to continuous development and improvement in various academic fields.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time that the university has attained advanced positions in the QS ranking. It has appeared in an advanced position among Arab universities by being ranked 20th in the Arab world for the year 2024. Additionally, it is considered the only Bahraini university to receive a 5-star rating in the QS Stars University Ratings, among many other achievements at the local, Arab, and global levels.
University Signs MoU with Bahrain Society for Human Resource Management
https://www.asu.edu.bh/university-signs-mou-with-bahrain-society-for-human-resource-management/
As part of the University’s efforts to enhance relations and collaborate with specialized national institutions, the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bahrain Society for Human Resource Management. The MoU aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the University and the Society, especially since the University offers distinguished academic programs in Bachelor’s and Graduate studies, including specializations in Business Administration and Human Resource Management.
This collaboration aligns with the University’s vision of building bridges of communication with professional specialized entities, contributing to the development of graduates who combine theoretical aspects with practical skills, in line with the diverse developments in academic and practical fields. This is achieved by providing an outstanding educational experience that prepares them to thrive in competitive work environments.
As part of its strategic plan, the University seeks to enhance cooperative relations with various national institutions, aiming to graduate a distinguished cohort of students equipped with the skills and knowledge that serve them in the job market. This is accomplished through engaging with governmental and private institutions in the Kingdom, benefiting the Bahraini community and serving the country’s development efforts.
The University Wins the Entrepreneurship Development Award at the 2nd Edition of “GHEDEX Bahrain 2024”
The University won the Entrepreneurship Development Award during its participation as a golden sponsor in the global higher education exhibition “GHEDEX Bahrain 2024” in its second edition. This achievement reflects the University’s keenness to promote entrepreneurship across all the disciplines it offers, by developing students’ creative skills and innovation and enabling them to launch projects that match their talents and aspirations.
Supporting entrepreneurship constitutes one of the fundamental pillars of the educational process at the University, driven by its belief in the importance of innovation and creativity in promoting entrepreneurship and establishing educational programmes and courses that work on creating a qualified human force to drive the market and contribute to the economic development process.
The University also attaches great importance to entrepreneurship topics, especially after the inauguration of the Business Incubators Center, which provides all the support and services that students need to develop their ideas and turn them into successful projects. In addition to establishing partnerships and cooperation agreements with institutions and companies that support entrepreneurship, in line with efforts to train students on creativity and innovation, support their entrepreneurial ideas, and encourage them to start their entrepreneurial journey.
The University also supports the entrepreneurial ideas and projects of its graduates and students and is keen to organize events that highlight their success, the latest of which was the Entrepreneurial Market event it organized last March with the participation of more than 140 male and female students from the University who own 20 entrepreneurial projects in various fields.
UI Green Metric World University Rankings
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=289860356768273&set=pcb.289860543434921
In the field of sustainability, the university’s efforts have resulted in it achieving a prominent ranking in the 2022 UI Green Metric World University Rankings. It secured the first position among private universities locally and advanced to the 35th position in the Arab region, as well as the 407th position globally. This achievement highlights the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its dedication to promoting green practices within its campus and operations.
Graduate Employability Rankings 2022
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=289859613435014&set=pcb.289859820101660
The university has achieved yet another milestone in its distinguished and accomplished academic and administrative journey at local, Arab, and international levels. It has been ranked among the top 550 universities in the world in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings for 2022, highlighting its commitment to producing graduates with strong employability prospects.
In Local Newspapers: Achieving the BQA Institutional Review and Retains its ISO 9001:2015 Certification
https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/booklet-Final.pdf
Gulf Daily News and Daily Tribune Newspapers published articles about ASU achievement of the BQA Institutional Review and Retaining its ISO 9001:2015 Certification: On April 21st, 2020, ASU passed the second surveillance audit for its quality management system and successfully retained its ISO 9001:2015 Certification to provide administrative support for its students. The 2nd Surveillance Audit comes about two years after the University first achieved the ISO 9001:2015 Certification back in 2018 and one year after it successfully passed its 1st Surveillance Audit. The Surveillance Audits are meant to verify that all the measures taken to install a robust Quality Management System are still in place, properly implemented and monitored, and are effectively leading to continuous improvement. The External Audit was performed by a Senior External Auditor appointed by RICI, the IRCA (UK) Approved Certification Body that inspected the University and granted it the certification in the first place. This year, the External Audit was conducted virtually through a purpose-built virtual audit room. It consisted of live interviews with the selected departments and to documents’ inspection based on sampling and audit trailing techniques. After an opening meeting chaired by the VP for Administration, Finance and Community Engagement with the External Auditor and all the Heads of Departments selected for the External Surveillance Audit, the External Auditor started conducting his virtual interviews with the top management and the departments chosen as per the scheduled plan, including the QAAC, the HR Department, the Deanship of Student Affairs, and examining various documentation related to these departments and other departments such as the Marketing and Public Relations Directorate. The technology deployed by the University allowed the external auditor to conduct his mission very smoothly, and he was delighted with the way things were run. He finally held a closing meeting at the end of the day to thank everyone for their valuable cooperation and confirmed that after his day-long audit activities, he concluded that the quality management system installed two years ago as per the ISO 9001:2015 standard is properly up and running and therefore, he recommends the University to keep its certification. The attendees cheered for this great news and thanked him for his fine work and professionalism and took a virtual group photo. 106 This achievement comes as yet another testimonial of the University’s strong commitment to achieving high-quality standards, achieving continuous improvement, and above all, achieving student satisfaction. Next year, the University will be subject to a re-certification process, which means all the departments within the scope of the ISO 9001:2015 Certification will be audited again.
In Local Newspapers: Ranking amongst the Top 1000 Universities in the QS World University Rankings 2021
https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/booklet-Final.pdf
Gulf Daily News and Daily Tribune Newspapers published articles about ASU being among top 1000 QS World Universities: Applied Science University “ASU” adopted a vision to become a distinguished international University in teaching quality, scientific research, and academic excellence. In doing so, its numerous achievements at the local, Arab and international level has now seen the University achieve an advanced position in the QS World University Ranking 2021. ASU is ranked 651-700 among the top 1000 out of 5500 Universities in the world; thus, becoming the First Private University in the Kingdom of Bahrain to achieve this advanced position and making it one of the best Universities in the world. ASU is the First Private University in the Kingdom, in terms of global ranking, to be placed alongside other world-class Universities. This accolade has been awarded by the QS World University Rankings. QS World University Rankings is an Annual Publication of University Rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), and it is one of the world’s most distinguished University Ranking Organisations. ASU has occupied this advanced position in the QS Rankings for the second time. It achieved an advanced position for Arab Universities with the QS Arab Region University Rankings over the past two years. In the 2018/ 2019 rankings, ASU ranked 45th Place in the QS Arab Region, while in the 2019/ 2020 rankings it advanced to 37th Place and became the only University in the Kingdom of Bahrain to receive four stars. ASU’s March was toward academic excellence has also seen the University earn its Institutional Accreditation from the Higher Education Council, and seen it complete its institutional review by the Education and Training Quality Authority. The University has become an Accredited Centre by the Higher Education Academy (HEA), United Kingdom with 65+ recognised faculty members as Fellows, Senior and Principal Fellows of the HE; and also achieving the RICI Certified Management Systems for Educational Organisation ISO 21001:2018 and the ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management. Overall, these achievements are overall, considered among the most significant in ASU’s history and confirm its reputation as a world-class institution of Higher Education. Prof Waheeb Al Khaja, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, affirmed that ASU is determined to develop its academic system, performance and educational outputs. Prof Waheeb Al Khaja also offered sincere appreciation to HE Dr Majid bin Ali Al-Nuaimi, Minister of Education, Chairman of the Higher Education 110 Council, the Higher Education Council Members and the Secretariat General of the Higher Education Council for their great efforts in developing and supporting education in the Kingdom of Bahrain to make it a Regional Education Hub. Prof Ghassan Aouad, President of the University, stated that the latest QS World University ranking was a major milestone in the its march towards excellence. The distinction made Applied Science University one of the best international Universities in efficiency and competitive success. Prof Aouad also indicated that the QS World University Rankings depends on a set of criteria to evaluate the participating Universities in terms of educational and research aspects, the University’s impact locally and globally, the academic reputation of the University, the reputation of its graduates in the labour market and the percentage of Faculty Members to students. Moreover, Prof Aouad mentioned that ASU achieved impressive results in all of the evaluation criteria. The strengths and distinguished academic reputation have enabled it to occupy this advanced international ranking. Echoing Prof Aouad’s sentiments, Dr Mohammed Yousif, Vice President of Administration, Finance and Community Engagement stated that the University’s outstanding international recognition emphasises the quality of the ASU’s educational outputs and reflects a bright image of education in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
An Interview with Bahrain TV
https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/booklet-Final.pdf
Prof Ghassan Aouad, the University President was interviewed by Bahrain TV to talk about the University’s Global Achievement and its QS Global Ranking for 2021 in “اليوم حديث “Programme. During the interview, the President talk about the most important criteria that led to the University obtaining an outstanding position in the QS Global Ranking, the importance of Bahraini Universities being in the international rankings, their role in the educational process, and many other points also was addressed in the interview.
International Conference Sustainable Future ICSF
https://www.asu.edu.bh/2017/11/international-conference-sustainable-futures-icsf/
Conference was held under the patronage of HE the Minister of Education, Dr Majid bin Ali Al-Nuaimi and in association with London South Bank University with sponsorships from the Chartered Institute of Building (partial sponsoring of the conference proceedings and best paper on innovation), Nass Group (sponsoring the Gala Dinner), the Higher Education Academy in the UK (sponsoring 2 best papers on sustainable futures), LSBU (partial sponsoring of the proceedings and best paper on research methodology) and many other sponsors.
On the first day, the Conference started with opening remarks from the President of the University and Conference Chair who provided the context for the conference and the rationale for organizing it and provided some research results about the status of competitiveness of Bahrain in relation to other Arab nations and trends over the last 5 years.
A welcome speech was then delivered by Dr Abdul Ghani Al Shuwaikh, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council, on behalf of HE the Minister of Education who spoke at length about the importance of the topic in light of the National Research Strategy developed by the HEC.
Prof Waheeb Alkhaja, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of ASU and Honorary Chair of the Conference, then delivered a speech about the importance of sustainability from Universities’ perspective and how our University is keen to embrace a sustainable approach.
In his speech, Prof Waheeb said “As Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Applied Science University it gives me a great pleasure to welcome our distinguished guests and scholars and researchers and practitioners who have come all the way to Bahrain from as far as Australia, United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Nigeria, and Turkey and many other countries”.
Prof Waheeb added that “this topical conference organized by Applied Science University in association with London South Bank University and with great support from the Chartered Institute of Building, the Association of Arab Universities and the Higher Education Academy in the UK covers important topics related to our globe and its future sustainability.
It is pleasing to see the Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Building, Mr Chris Blythe, amongst our distinguished guests. This conference will undoubtedly contribute to HM the king’s vision 2030 to make the Kingdom of Bahrain a truly international knowledge hub. The wise leadership of our Kingdom is enabling us to generate knowledge and conduct research that is relevant to our society and communities”. He then thanked HE, the Minister of Education in Bahrain, Dr Majed bin Ali Alnuaimi for his continuous support and for the patronage of this conference and added that our Ministry, the Higher Education Council, and the Bahrain Quality Assurance Authority are doing a great job in transforming Education and Higher Education in the Kingdom, and we are all committed to their vision
and state of the art guiding strategies.
Prof Waheeb added, “ASU has signed a strategic partnership with LSBU and we launched the College of Engineering last September and we are jointly organizing this conference and soon we will be announcing a joint venture to support research, innovation and enterprise.
It is pleasing to see Prof David Phoenix, Vice Chancellor and President of LSBU and many colleagues from LSBU attending this conference. We have also signed a memorandum of collaboration with Cardiff Met and we launched 2 programs in Management and Business Studies and Accounting and Finance last September”.
He concluded by stating, “Building a sustainable future is an important priority for many universities in the Kingdom of Bahrain and beyond. The future leaders of tomorrow need to preach what they learnt about sustainability and undoubtedly Universities can play a major role in producing these future leaders. It is important to address the issue of sustainability by covering the three pillars of Environment, Technology and Economics. Applied Science University (ASU) in Bahrain and since its establishment has operated to be environmentally friendly within the sustainable buildings and campuses context, particularly in terms of the efficient use of energy and resources, especially the use of wastewater” and concluded by once again thanking HE, Dr Majed bin Ali Alnuaimi for his patronage and by wishing participants a successful conference and a pleasant stay in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Following Prof Waheeb’s talk speeches were made by HE Mr Simon Martin, the British Ambassador to Bahrain, about the importance of joint collaboration between Bahraini and British Universities, Prof David Phoenix, Vice Chancellor of LSBU who spoke about the value of linking research and innovation, and finally Mr Chris Blythe, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Building about the role of professional bodies in supporting sustainable futures. The opening ceremony, which was attended by around 200 people, concluded with awarding the speakers and a group photograph. It was pleasing to see Mr Sameer Nass, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Honorary Chair of the Conference,
attending the opening ceremony.
Following the opening ceremony, keynote speeches were made by Dr Farzana Al Maraghi from the Higher Education Council in Bahrain about the status of research in Bahrain and internationally and gave a detailed description of the Bahrain’s National Research Strategy, and Prof Charles Egbu, Dean of the School of Built Environment and Architecture and CoChair of the Conference who spoke about the link between innovation and sustainability.
Then, three parallel sessions started with 24 presentations on various topics such as construction, sustainable futures, finance, economy, education amongst many others. The first day of the conference was concluded with a panel discussed chaired by Mr Chris Blythe, Chief Executive of the CIOB, with members from Different backgrounds sharing their views on the latest trends in sustainable futures relevant to their respective fields. The panelists were Ms Paula Boast, Mr Christopher Core, Ms Emilia Mateva and Dr Jassim Haji. The guest speaker at the Gala Dinner was Prof Riyadh Hamzah who delivered an interesting speech about the future of sustainability.
The second day of the Conference started with keynote speeches by Dr Roy Blatchford from the Office of the First Deputy Prime Minister about the importance of education in creating sustainable futures, and Prof Mustafa Alshawi from Unisearch UK who spoke about Building Information Modelling. Then, another 3 parallel sessions started with 36 presentations presented throughout the day on topics related to culture, HR, Advanced IT in support of sustainability amongst many others.
The Conference concluded with a successful closing ceremony where speakers, members of the organizing committee and volunteering students were awarded certificates of appreciation. Speakers presented a total of 60 papers from 20 countries from all over the globe. A total of 65 papers were published in the 730 pages Conference proceedings, which was printed in a hard cover with an ISBN number.
The academic outputs from colleagues of the University who made contributions to the conference are listed below:
- Ghassan Aouad, Assem Al-Hajj and Charles Egbu, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, Bahrain
- Assem Al-Hajj and Essam El Chayeb, Effects of green school environment on users’ wellbeing and productivity, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Islam Abohela, The fictional story of renewables: A proposition for sustainable future, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Adel Al-Samman and Faiza Zitouni, Core competencies of academics from students’ perspective, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Camelia Camal, Public private partnership and sustainable development in Bahrain, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
- Saad Darwish, The role of insurance sector in protecting the GCC economies through risk management practices: Impact of climate change, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0 Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
- Hussein Khasharmeh, Perceptions of determinants of auditors fees in Bahraini listed companies – An empirical study, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-9036-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Ragab Ismail, The importance of the agricultural sector in achieving relative food security in the Kingdome of Bahrain, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
- Ashraf Abazeed and Moaiad Khder, Mining association rules from XML data techniques, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
- Moaiad Khder, Malik Al Zaqebah, Ashraf Abazeed, and Mohammad Saifi, Smart shoes foe visually impaired/blind people, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 97899958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
- Mohammed Yousif Abu Keir, Staff perceptions of the link between HR practices and organizational performance: A study of Bahraini private universities, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Saad Darwish, Horiya Aldeeb, Atheela Alazzawi, and Atheer Al Rashid, Critical success elements for small and medium enterprises: Perceptions of entrepreneurs in Bahrain, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
- Ahlam Al-Ethawi, Faiza Zitouni and Diana El Hageova, The role of business incubators in supporting sustainable entrepreneurship for women in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Mohammed Assiadi, Structural settlement monitoring using single-epoch relative GPS positioning, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Raad Kadhum. Use of LDPE and Steel Slag in Hot Mix Asphalt Concrete as Sustainable Construction Material, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Khairi Mohamed Omar, Abdullah Hj Abdul Ghanib, The Effects of Human Resources Practices in Libyan Banks Sector on Client Behavior Intention to Subscribe In Islamic Finance System, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017.
- Mahmoud Mawed, Ihab Al Bairam, Assem Al-Hajj, Linking Between Sustainable Development and Facilities Management Strategies: An Integrated Approach for Evaluating the Sustainability of Existing Building in the UAE, Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Futures, ISBN 978-99958-90-36-0, Applied Science University, 26 – 27 November, 2017
I strongly believe that we have run a truly international peer refereed research conference of the highest quality. The feedback we received from participants was overwhelming and very supportive. This wouldn’t have happened without a true team effort. I would like to start by thanking Prof Waheeb for his great support and as a token of appreciation the Conference Proceedings was dedicated to him for his vision and tireless efforts in transforming the University and making it truly international.
I would also like to thank Dr Assem for chairing the scientific committee and dealing with all research and academic matters (and a big thank you to our colleagues from the University who were part of the scientific committee and helped with the paper reviewing process) and Dr Faiza for chairing the organizing committee and dealing with all logistical and organizational issues through a detailed project plan and for doing a lot of the running during the 2 days of the conference.
Many thanks are also due to Dr Mohamed Yousif for his continuous support and extra help provided. This conference wouldn’t have happened without the great efforts from too many colleagues including Ms Tania, the Conference Coordinator, who helped immensely with the website and publicity materials and VIPs invitations and for the coverage in the English press, Mr Abdulla for dealing with many administrative issues especially the difficult issue of securing visas for all participants and handling all financial issues, Ms Ruqaya for being the best MC any organization can dream to have and for her interactions with the media and press and for arranging the conference gifts and dealing with participants’ accommodation and flights and for organizing the social day, Ms Mariam for dealing with the proceedings of the conference and acting as a single contact during the 2 days conference and by being a true professional throughout the conference, Ms Diana who worked so hard communicating with participants, chasing paper reviews, and producing a draft copy of the conference program and keeping all participants and authors informed about the status of the conference, and Mr Moath who worked really hard on keeping the website up-to-date and some of the technical issues. The aforementioned colleagues were part of the organizing committee and made exceptional efforts to make the conference a great success and they were present throughout the conference, day and night.
Other colleagues who have helped included Mr Rifat, Ms Shadia (especially with the competitiveness trends presentation delivered by the President), Mr Shakir, Mr Fernando, and Mr Francisco from ICT who provide exceptional help, Mr Mohamed Nassar (who represented Mr Abdulla in some meetings), Mr Ashraf, Mr Arafat, Mr Majed, Mr Maan, Mr Yasser, Mr Mohamed, Mr Ibrahim, Mr Goodwin, Mr Ahmad, Mr Absar, Mr Abdulla, Mr Hassan (our security and drivers) from admin and finance, Ms Catherine Hogan for checking some of our English material, Mr Bahaa and Mr Hameed from Marketing and Public Affairs, Ms Ayat for sending the invitations for the opening ceremony, Dr Mohammed AlHamami, Mr Mohamed Najjar and Students Council and anybody else who contributed to the conference.
Special thanks must also go to the chair of sessions at the conference: Dr Assem, Dr Faiza, Prof Mahmoud, Prof Saad, Prof Hilal, Dr Ramzi, Dr Ashraf, Dr Islam, Dr Khairi, Dr Marwan, Dr Adel, and Dr Farzana.
Most importantly, I would like to thank our volunteering students who were our best ambassadors at the conference. The exhibition for Art and Science students organized by Dr Belal and Dr Oday with great help from Dr Faiza and Mr Abdulla was well received by participants. I would like to conclude by thanking our colleague speakers (and others who attended to learn) and congratulating them for presenting some real research generated by the University and to say well done to Dr Islam for winning the best paper on innovation awarded by the CIOB, the Chartered Institute of Building.
Organizing an international conference of the highest quality is not as easy task. However, proper planning and commitment and determination can make a big conference. I am confident that the conference will have a positive impact on students’ recruitment and the raising of the University’s profile and reputation in the region and internationally.
Partnership with London South Bank University (LSBU)
https://www.asu.edu.bh/international/london-south-bank-university-lsbu/
London South Bank University (LSBU) is a cosmopolitan university with over 18,000 students from over 130 countries. It was founded in 1892 as the Borough Polytechnic Institute. It has undergone several name changes until it became London South Bank University in 2003.
LSBU has been awarded Silver for teaching excellence under the Government’s Teaching Excellence Framework. LSBU is very proud to be the only UK university to be awarded University of the Year for Graduate Employment for two years in a row (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018, 2019).
LSBU has established numerous partnerships with business and academic institutions and they collaborate at local, national, and international level with communities, schools and colleges, social enterprises, NGOs and other charitable organisations.
In 2017, Applied Science University (ASU) and London South Bank University established an academic partnership, and launched two validated programmes within the ASU’s College of Engineering in the academic year 2017-2018.
ASU and LSBU plan to expand this academic partnership to include a number of new programmes in the near future.
For further information about LSBU, please visit: https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/
Why LSBU:
Teaching: LSBU’s teaching is applied, accredited and professional. This means that LSBU’s programmes, including those delivered at partner universities such as ASU, are designed to give you the skills and knowledge you need in the real world.
Employability: No matter where you are in your career, LSBU’s programmes will get you where you want to be. ASU will put you in contact with industry partners to help you take the next step in your career development.
Facilities: LSBU programmes delivered in partnership with ASU are taught in industry standard facilities. With the state-of-the-art engineering labs at ASU, you will get to grips with cutting edge and highly specialist equipment found in the workplace.
MOU with Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff Metropolitan can trace its heritage back to 1865, with the formation of Cardiff’s first School of Art and now in 2015, offers over 100 different courses, spread between five schools, across two campuses, with over 12,000 students. It is a truly global community, with connections stretching across the globe.
In 2014, Cardiff Metropolitan recorded its highest ever level of overall student satisfaction and remains the highest ranked ‘new’ (post 1992) university in Wales. In 2015, the university celebrated its 150th anniversary.
ASU partners with CMU to offer two bachelor’s programmes taught in English:
- B.A (Hons) Accounting & Finance
- B.A (Hons) Management & Business Studies
With the opening of these programmes, students will be able to gain internationally recognised UK qualifications in business subjects while studying in Bahrain. On successful completion of their programme, students will be awarded a degree from Cardiff Metropolitan University.
Agreement with Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait B.S
ASU has signed an agreement with Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait BS in which the bank offers ASU students ways to finance their tuition to promote quality education, thus supporting the SDGs and thus helping many more people in Bahrain they can access higher education.
About BBK:
https://arab-exchanges.org/sponsors/bank-of-bahrain-and-kuwait/
BBK, formerly known as The Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait B.S.C, was established on 16th March 1971 in accordance with the Amiri decree and started operations a year later. BBK has been the pioneer in Commercial Banking for 50 years in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
In 1972, we began operations with a capital of BD 1 million (US$ 2.5 million). Today, it has grown to become one of the largest commercial banks in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with a capital base of BD. 303.9 million (US$ 806 million).
We have succeeded in building a name and reputation, respected locally as well as internationally. We have a strong local presence with a nationwide network of Financial Malls, branches and ATMs. In addition to domestic branches, we have operations in the State of Kuwait, the Republic of India and through a representative office of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. As a market leader, in 2006 we conceived the revolutionary ‘Financial Mall’ concept, housing partners such as CrediMax credit cards, telecommunication service, travel and insurance needs under one roof. The Financial Malls provide customer-convenient services, personal financial advisors and queue-beating automated systems. The concept is a giant step forward and replaces conventional time-consuming banking processes offering the brighter experience.
Applied Science University signed a memorandum of understanding with Huawei, the leading global company in the provision of information and communication technology infrastructure, with the aim of enhancing joint work between the University and the tech giant to provide training programs in the fields of information and communication technology, in addition to cooperation and partnership in various fields of research and training.
The memorandum was signed on the part of ASU by Professor Ghassan Aouad, President of the University, and on the part of Huawei by Mr. Jason Cao, CEO of Huawei, in the presence of Dr. Jassim Haji, President of the International Group of Artificial Intelligence (IGOAI), and Mr. Eric Hyun Lee, CEO of Huawei in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in addition to the Vice Presidents of the University and members of its senior management team.
Under the memorandum of understanding, ASU will provide classrooms and educational facilities to accommodate Huawei ICT equipment, as well as nominate professional trainers to become certified trainers for the Huawei Academy Certificate Programme, while Huawei will provide the training curricula and the accredited certificates via Huawei Authorized Information and Network Academy program (HAINA), along with the necessary equipment for the training programs that the University will deliver based on students’ training needs.
On this occasion, the President of the University, Professor Ghassan Aouad, expressed his happiness to cooperate with Huawei, which is one of the largest technology companies in the world, noting that this partnership supports the University’s plans and vision to keep pace with the latest technological developments that revolutionized the field of education and contributed significantly to the development of teaching and research and how students receive learning.
Professor Ghassan also explained that the University gives utmost importance to the STEM subjects promoting the use and mastery of technology. Indeed, the University offers Bachelor degrees in the disciplines of Computer Science and also in Management Information Systems which are highly valued in the job market due to their importance and uses in various fields of business. Professor Ghassan reiterated his pride in signing this memorandum with the global company Huawei, hoping that this cooperation will be effectively reflected in the services offered by the University to its students by promoting the use of technology in the various processes and activities held at the University, in order
to facilitate the educational delivery and the administrative support for the students.
Finally, Professor Ghassan Aouad noted that the University’s keenness to develop ICT capabilities by investing in the development of Bahraini talents is driven by its eagerness to contribute to the national development of the Kingdom of Bahrain by providing the job market with a new generation of graduates that are tech savvy. He concluded by saying that this is perfectly in line with the national strategies and the Bahrain 2030 Vision which aims at turning Bahrain into a digital, knowledge-based economy, capable of competing with the international markets at the highest levels.
Al Baraka Islamic Bank Signs Education Financing Agreement with Applied Science University
https://www.facebook.com/ASUBAHRAIN/photos/6231205700253454
We are pleased to be partnering with Applied Science University as the third university on board with our newly launched education financing scheme. We are proud to be at the forefront within the banking industry to be offering such schemes which will help prospective students achieve their educational goals in obtaining a higher education degree. this scheme comes as part of our continuous efforts in supporting students by facilitating the process of attaining a higher education degree at top local institutions within the Kingdom of Bahrain. We look forward to partnering with more universities within the Kingdom.
Figure 2. Al Baraka Islamic Bank Signs Education Financing Agreement with Applied Science University
An MOU with Science and Technology University in Egypt
https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/49-Presidents-News-Digest-V4061019.pdf
An MOU with Reva University in India
MOU with London South Bank University
https://www.asu.edu.bh/2019/03/asu-participation-in-bahrain-training-center-bti-career-week/.
Advance HE and ASU
https://www.advance-he.ac.uk/about-us
Advance HE is a member-led, sector-owned charity that works with institutions and higher education across the world to improve higher education for staff, students and society.
Our strategic goals to enhance confidence and trust in HE, address systemic inequalities and advance education to meet the evolving needs of students and society, supports the work of our members and the HE sector.
We are experts in higher education with a particular focus on enhancing teaching and learning, effective governance, leadership development and tackling inequalities through our equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) work.
We deliver our support through professional development programmes and events, Fellowships, awards, student surveys, providing strategic change and consultancy services and through membership (including accreditation of teaching and learning, equality charters, research, knowledge and resources).
Using our expertise and sharing best practice, we work with our network of global associates and partners, and with people, providers and systems around the world to understand contexts and challenges, and deliver solutions. It is our people and the people we help that really make us who we are.
Our purpose
We help higher education be the best it can be.
Our vision
Higher education providers and systems that are inclusive, sustainable and high-performing in all they do.
ASU becomes first private provider of higher education in Bahrain to be accredited by Advance HE
Applied Science University (ASU) has become the first private provider of higher education in Bahrain to be accredited by Advance HE. Following successful completion of the Advance HE accredited programme, ASU staff are now awarded Fellowship, a global recognition of commitment to teaching and learning in higher education.
Advance HE has been working with ASU since 2015, and ASU staff have taken part in the Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Programme, which Advance HE trainers delivered to two cohorts in 2015 and 2017. As part of the programme, Advance HE supported a group of ASU staff to become trainers and gain a Certificate in Learning and Teaching in order to build capacity to develop staff internally. By mentoring from the Advance HE team, in 2017/18 ASU developed its own scheme -ASUrise- to support staff towards gaining fellowship recognition, and the scheme was accredited by Advance HE in September 2018.
Accreditation is the process used by Advance HE to confirm that opportunities for professional development offered by institutions are aligned with the Professional Standards Framework. Accreditation is considered a ‘badge of quality’, requiring institutions to embed the Professional Standards Framework within policy and strategy indicating a clear commitment to the enhancement of teaching and learning. The impact of the programme of work at ASU has meant that nearly 50 members of staff have achieved a category of HEA Fellowship, including 13 staff achieving HEA Senior Fellowship.
Professor Ghassan Fouad Aouad, President of Applied Science University, Bahrain, said
“At ASU we’ve created a culture of developing and recognising our staff. Our work with Advance HE demonstrates the value we place on supporting practical and accessible learning.”
Ian Hall, Advance HE Head of International Membership, said
“It’s been fantastic to see the work being carried out at ASU and the accomplishment of the staff achieving Fellowship and Senior Fellowship cannot be overstated. I’m also very appreciative of the enthusiasm of the staff involved in establishing ASU’s own fellowship scheme.”
Advance HE works to improve higher education for all using expertise and by sharing best practice. Find out more about Advance HE’s support for higher education providers outside the UK.
ASU signs a Memorandum of Understanding with JAFCON consultants for productivity improvement
The University, represented by Professor Ghassan Aouad, President of the University, signed a memorandum of understanding with “JAFCON Consultants for Productivity Improvement” represented by Dr. Akbar Jaffari, CEO, to provide a training program for the University students to enhance their practical skills and help them get suitable jobs in the labor market.
The agreement aims to enroll ASU students and graduates in the “Eqtidar (Ability) Program for productivity improvement”, supported by TAMKEEN, to raise their skills and practical abilities in their fields of study in a way that enhances their chances of getting suitable jobs through a series of training programs and workshops focused on enhancing the practical abilities of the participants. In addition, the program opens up the channels of communication between the University students and the reputable consultancy firm so that they can benefit from its long-standing expertise in productivity and performance enhancement to enable them to excel at their future work after graduation.
On this agreement, the President of the University, Professor Ghassan Aouad, stressed that the University is very keen to provide career opportunities for its students and graduates and facilitate their integration into the labor market by introducing training programs that keep up with the evolving requirements and latest trends of the job market, pointing out that the increasing competitiveness over the available jobs has prompted the University to work even harder on equipping its students with the skills that will make them stand out and match them with the right job opportunities.
Professor Ghassan also explained that, since its inception, the University has been keen to provide the Bahraini and Gulf labor market with distinguished graduates in various fields, by providing its students with suitable internships and practical training as part of the completion of their graduation requirements, which helps them to easily integrate the labor market and contributes to gaining sufficient experience to commence work successfully and confidently.
The President of the University pointed out that the goal of this agreement is to help students obtain a practical training during their academic studies as a key step towards obtaining the job that corresponds to their scientific qualifications after graduation, by giving them the opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge they gained during their studies in a practical real-life setting, and to learn more about the nature of the labor market and its needs, in addition to giving the student a first impression of the field he/she will be working in and the people he/she will be interacting with after graduating from the University.
The President concluded by emphasizing that the University considers the internships that it offers to its students as one of the most important components of building the student’s personality and academic and practical experience. Thus, it strives to give its students the opportunity to apply what they have learned on the ground, learn more about the issues of their respective sectors, and benefit from the theoretical concepts they gained during their studies to find practical solutions to real-life problems.
https://www.facebook.com/ASUBAHRAIN/photos/pcb.5519314428109255/5519314304775934/
