SDG4: Quality Education
Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. In Bahrain, the government has made significant strides toward achieving this goal through various initiatives and policies.
SDG 4 in Bahrain
Universal Access to Education: Bahrain has implemented policies to ensure that education is accessible to all citizens from early childhood through higher education. The government provides free education at public schools and has made efforts to reduce barriers for marginalized communities.
- Quality Education Improvement: The government continually invests in enhancing the quality of education, implementing international standards in curricula, teacher training, and educational facilities. This includes adopting modern teaching methods and incorporating technology in classrooms.
- Vocational and Technical Education: Recognizing the importance of vocational training, Bahrain has developed various programs to provide skills training that aligns with labor market demands. Initiatives aim to equip students with practical skills necessary for employment.
- Higher Education Expansion: The Ministry of Education supports the expansion of higher education institutions, focusing on creating partnerships with international universities to enhance academic offerings and research collaboration.
- Lifelong Learning Opportunities: Programs aimed at promoting adult education and continuous professional development are encouraged, fostering an environment where learning is seen as a lifelong journey.
- Quality Assessment and Accreditation: Bahrain has established assessment and accreditation bodies to ensure that educational institutions meet high standards, contributing to overall educational quality.
SDG 4 at Applied Science University (ASU)
At Applied Science University in Bahrain, SDG 4 is actively embraced through various initiatives:
- Inclusive Education Programs: ASU offers a range of programs that cater to diverse student needs, ensuring inclusivity and adapting to different learning styles. Support services are available for students with special needs.
- Quality of Higher Education: ASU is committed to maintaining high academic standards by continuously updating curricula and offering programs that align with industry needs. Faculty development programs ensure educators are well-equipped to teach effectively.
- Research and Development: The university emphasizes research as a key component of higher education. Faculty and students engage in research projects that contribute to national and regional educational advancement, aligning with global standards.
- Community Outreach and Engagement: ASU participates in community service projects aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for the broader population. Initiatives may include workshops, seminars, and programs designed to promote education and awareness in various fields.
- Lifelong Learning Initiatives: ASU offers continuing education courses and professional development programs, encouraging alumni and community members to engage in lifelong learning and skill enhancement.
- Partnerships with Industry: The university collaborates with various private and public sector entities to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the job market, bridging the gap between education and employment.
Through these initiatives, both at the national level and within Applied Science University, Bahrain is actively working toward achieving SDG 4, fostering an environment of quality education, inclusivity, and lifelong learning opportunities for all individuals.
Library and Information Service
https://www.asu.edu.bh/library-and-information-services/directors-message/
The Library of Applied Science University was established along with the inauguration of the University in 2004. The University has paid special attention to its library by providing it with an adequate budget to enrich its collections of books, periodicals and electronic materials in all knowledge fields and by adopting the modern technology and the use of information technology.
The strategic plan of the ASU Library for 2020 – 2025 includes the vision of becoming distinguished in terms of resources and services and of being the main source of cultural and scientific knowledge and thoughts at the national and regional levels.
The Library of Applied Science University offers its services to the university community including the students, the faculty members and the administrative staff, in addition to the researchers from outside the university and from other Universities in Bahrain.
The Library also has publication exchange and philanthropic relations with many universities and different academic, cultural and scientific institutions.
The library has used computers in all its services and activities. In addition, it has purchased and operated a new library system called Future Library System that has been installed since 2010. The library offers the service of databases and online search on its portal lib.asu.edu.bh that also contains all the provided services in Arabic and English. The home page includes all the information about the library.
The Library also provides 10 private research rooms for the community of the university.
The library collection includes more than 32000 books and 38 English and Arabic paper journals that cover all fields of knowledge. Moreover, the library has an annual subscription to e-books and has the access to databases including electronic journals …in full text. The Library subscriptions include the following databases:
ProQuest: Architectural Periodicals which offer a comprehensive listing of journal articles published worldwide.
Ebook: Includes books of all scientific and humanities subjects.
ARADO: Publications of the Arab Administration Development.
EMERALD: Includes a wide collection of journals, books and case studies.
EBSCO: Includes a collection of books, journals and research databases.
ACM: One of the most important digital libraries in information technology and computer science.
The Learn Book: Includes books and references in all fields.
Dar AlMandumah: It contains around 60000 PhD and master’s thesis in all academic disciplines, especially social sciences.
Science Direct (Scopus): Scopus uniquely combines a comprehensive, expertly curated abstract and citation database with enriched data and linked scholarly literature across a wide variety of disciplines.
Material ConneXion: World-class materials, library and consultancy and a resource for furniture and architectural design.
LexisNexis: Provides unparalleled legal and business information with analytics and technology.
TurnItIn: A software used for plagiarism check of students’ research and theses.
Library of Applied Science University offers many services such as photocopying, printing and circulation service. service. There are many seats available for studying and it opens from Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm and on Saturday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Vision
Developing a leading Library Service, with world class resources, and deliver a professional service for all our communities, helping library users to build their future success at the heart of ASU.
Mission
To provide high quality resources and responsive services that contribute substantially to research, teaching and learning directions. ASU’s Library is dedicated to develop innovative, trusted and accessible services, collections and both printed and electronic resources in pursuit of the ASU’s mission.
Objectives
- Develop Library Collections
- Improve the User Experience
- Enhance Learning Opportunities
- Support Research Activities
- Maximize Engagement and Outreach
- Build Operations and Infrastructure
BOOKS & PUBLICATIONS
https://www.asu.edu.bh/library-and-information-services/books-publications/
Political Science
Administrative Sciences
Law
Arts
Library
https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Student-Handbook-English-2022-2021.pdf
The Applied Science University (ASU) Library is both a physical and virtual centre where students and faculty engage in learning, teaching, and research. The Library serves the learning community with services to help both students and faculty with the information services and resources to maintain and acquire relevant and up to date knowledge and skills and find, assess and use information effectively and ethically.
The Library is conveniently located in the campus,spread over an area of 1000 squaremeters, consisting of a reading area, book display area, service counter, and 30 computer terminals including 10 study rooms, each equipped with a computer. The Library’s extensive collection includes over 32000 books in Arabic and English, printed journals that cover all subjects taught at ASU in business, computer science, political sciences, law, accounting and other fields, together with student theses. Library users can search physical library resources on and off campus using future library system. Currently, the Library receives more than 1,500 books to its collection annually. The required information materials are being purchased especially on recommendations of academic staff and students.
The University Library has Permanent Reference Collection (PRC) which consists of ready reference sources such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, government Gazettes, books in heavy demand. The Library and Information Services Directorate also operates a separate book shop for selling textbooks for the students. Further, the Library attends 2-3 book fairs per annum to facilitate the selection of additional academic and research material to be acquired for the Library.
The Library also has an annual subscription to e-books and access to databases including electronic journals in full text. ASU has extent its International databases and subscriptions and these now include ProQuest (Avery Index), Ebrary, ARADO, EMERALD, EBSCOhost, ACM Digital Library, The Learn Book and Dar Almanduma. Library users can access the databases and conduct online searches from on and off campus using library portal powered by Deep Knowledge via ASU’s website (lib.asu.edu.bh).
The Library is committed to creating information and technology-rich learning environment where academic and intellectual needs of our students and faculty members are anticipated, supported and fulfilled.
The Library endeavours to provide up to date, high quality and comprehensive educational and research material to students and faculty. It coordinates with the Deans and faculty to enable students to acquire and develop information literacy skills which support them in achieving academic excellence.
Main Services the Library and Information Services Directorate
- Guide students and help them find the desired material.
- Organise the borrowing operations by assigning a unique username and code to each borrower at the library system.
- Assist user(s) to ensure proper use of the library system.
- Help library attendants in printing, copying and bookbinding of study material.
- Manage the procurement of library resource(s).
- Check the reading list periodically to determine which items are likely to be in high demand.
- Organise informative workshops for students and staff.
- Operate the University book shop.
Every student is issued a library access along with a unique log-in credentials to access the E-library. The students are provided with information regarding the library system upon library registration. Students must produce their library access in order to borrow material from the library.
Photocopying Service
Printing and photocopying services are available for students at an advertised concessional rate.
General Library Rules
- If the discipline of the Library is violated by the students, the Librarian has the right to ask the students to leave.
- It is not permitted to photocopy more than 10% of the material regarding to the copyright regulations.
- At the time of leaving the Library, the visitors in possession of books and other library materials should leave it at the Library entrance.
- If the behaviour of the visitor offended someone or violates the instructions of the Library, then the DOL can prevent him/ her from entering the Library and disallow him/ her from borrowing any library materials for a period of one semester.
- Mobile phone should be turned off or kept on silent mode.
- Keeping the Library clean by not littering and following the Library rules and regulations is a must.
- Library property has to be respected and maintained at all times.
- Silence is a necessity inside the Library, and reasonable effort should be made to keep the noise level at a minimum.
- Students must show their ID cards when asked by the Librarian.
- Books that have been read or removed from their shelves can be left on the table.
- Library computers have to be used for academic purposes only.
- It is not allowed to leave any notes, scribbles or markings on the books or deteriorate/damage the books.
- Eating and drinking inside the Library is not permitted.
- Books can only be borrowed via the library card.
- It is not permitted to bring children inside the Library as this might distract the researchers from doing their work.
Library Opening Hours
- Saturdays to Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Fridays from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Electronic Library of ASU
Library Objectives
1 – provide sources of human knowledge to serve the various scientific disciplines at the university.
2 – systems development office in line with recent developments in the field of library and information services .
3 – Provide information services and office to facilitate search and retrieval through to the decisions of publications , catalogs, Guides, Scouts , and other.
4 – the exchange of publications and university publications deanship with universities and scientific institutions at home and abroad .
5 – Preparation of induction programs for students and faculty members the services provided by and how to use available sources of information .
6 – provide services to beneficiaries through the replies and queries and the delivery of the request as soon as possible
7 – creating the right climate inside the library for study and research.
8 – to encourage and support scientific research between students and faculty members.
9 – Encourage Scientific Publications ( research and studies , books, etc.) .
10 – Contribute to the construction of the intellectual community
Library users
- Students at various levels and specialties
2.Academic Staff
3. Administrative staff
4. Researchers in various fields and topics
5. members of the community
Rules of use of the library
Please
1. consider the advertised working hours
2. Mobile phones must be closed inside the library.
3. maintain order and cleanliness in the library.
4. maintain the library materials.
5. Keep quiet throughout the library.
6. leave the books after using on the table.
7. use computers in the library for research purposes only.
8. Prevent damage and add notes to books and other materials.
9. Don’t eat or drink inside the library.
10. Prevent borrowing unless you have an account on our website.
11. Don’t violate the library system, otherwise it’s allowed for the librarian to ask you to leave the library.
12. The library specialist is always at your service, please cooperate with him to provide better services.
Holding Search
https://library.asu.edu.bh/asu6.0/Libraries/start.aspx?fn=SearchInterFace&ScopeID=1.102.
Search on the page is available to all as shown below:
In addition to the global search which includes libraries of different international universities from all over the world. This search also is available to all and free charged.
ASU E-Learning for All
https://www.asu.edu.bh/e-learning/
ASU promotes learning for all and has the purpose of teaching different topics, in this sense, through E-LEARNING it provides the students, staff and community in general with different courses, training free of charged in order to train and develop skills, to access the platform. The person must register with their basic data and can access different content.
ASU, thinking of the general community, students and staff, implemented an E-Learning section in which people who are part of the academic community and people outside the university can train and develop skills necessary for educational and human growth. ASU E-learning offers courses and training programs.
The courses offered by ASU are mostly for everyone, except for courses only for students, the others can be taken. This service is free of charged.
In the E-LEARNING Platform, grades are obtained through the TESTs that are presented on the course that is being developed and depending on the grade of the test the student passes or not.
Lifelong Learning Access Policy
https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/ASU-Strategic-Plan-Final.pdf
The policy for lifelong learning under SDG 4 is central to the Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy of Applied Science University in Bahrain. The strategy focuses on enabling student achievement through the development of intellectual and personal autonomy, as well as responsibility for their own learning and the enhancement of lifelong learning skills. This is achieved through all programs, including effective work-based learning opportunities such as internship courses, which enhance workplace skills and values for learners from all backgrounds. Additionally, the strategy incorporates various initiatives to develop learners’ interest and skills in lifelong learning and to structure their learning goals. These include teaching methods that instill lifelong learning and enable learners to set their own learning objectives, exposure to new technologies, scientific events, and self-learning tools, and planned extracurricular activities such as site visits, exhibitions, and participation in competitions. Furthermore, peer learning is also encouraged, where learners have the opportunity to teach and learn from each other. Through these initiatives, Applied Science University is committed to promoting lifelong learning and supporting the achievement of SDG 4, ensuring that learners from all backgrounds have access to quality education and opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge they need for personal and professional growth. Some of the policies and strategies relevant to Lifelong learning are Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy, Student Internship Policy, Equality and Diversity Policy, Policy for Students with Special Needs.
The Equality and Diversity Policy outlines the University’s commitment to creating an environment where differences are valued, and equal opportunities are available to all staff, students, and stakeholders. The policy defines certain actions that impact the consistent application of equality and diversity, which are not permissible and may also be considered unlawful. These are termed “Types of Discrimination.”
The policy also identifies ‘protected characteristics,’ which are certain rights that all individuals possess, regardless of their position within the University. The University seeks to ensure that such rights are not subject to discrimination. The University is fully committed to promoting equality of opportunity and fairness and to eliminating discrimination for all staff, students, and anyone associated with the University regardless of their age, disability, marital status, family circumstances, race (color, ethnicity, or national background), religion or belief, or gender.
As part of this commitment to equality and diversity, the University recognizes the importance of ensuring that all individuals have access to educational activities, including lifelong learning opportunities. The University believes that everyone should have the opportunity to engage in lifelong learning and develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives. By promoting an inclusive and equitable learning environment, the University is contributing to the achievement of SDG 4 and ensuring that all individuals have access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Public access to libraries for All
Public libraries serve as a vital cornerstone of a thriving and well-rounded society, making a substantial impact in the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) – to establish comprehensive and fair quality education while fostering lifelong learning possibilities for everyone. These libraries represent an invaluable resource, offering an extensive reservoir of knowledge, information, and literature that has the potential to enrich and elevate individuals’ lives.
The University acknowledges the significance of ensuring public access to its library resources, which encompass a diverse range of books and publications. To facilitate this, the University has extended access to the library’s digital resources by providing a designated username and password. This initiative empowers individuals to broaden their intellectual horizons both within the campus confines and beyond its boundaries.
In a bid to foster community interaction, the University’s library additionally furnishes an inviting space for people to engage with these resources. This is exemplified through the provision of a research room option within the library portal, affording individuals the opportunity to delve into academic endeavors while nurturing a sense of communal involvement.
The essence of public library accessibility resonates deeply with the principle of lifelong learning, nurturing a sense of curiosity and intellectual growth. By enabling open access to library materials, Applied Science University stands as a catalyst in the realization of SDG 4, committed to providing individuals of all backgrounds and circumstances with the means to partake in quality education and unceasing learning prospects.
Through this dedication to equitable knowledge distribution, the University acknowledges the transformative potential of public libraries for the betterment of society. In line with its commitment to universal access to education and knowledge, Applied Science University remains steadfast in its resolve to facilitate equitable learning opportunities for all.
Quality Education at Applied Science University
Applied Science University has achieved several milestones that demonstrate its commitment to providing quality education and contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. The University has passed the Institutional Review by the Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA) in the Kingdom of Bahrain and achieved Global Accreditation from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) in the UK, making it one of only 11 universities in the world to achieve this recognition. Additionally, the University has achieved “Full Confidence” for all academic programs undergoing BQA Program Reviews and is on track for successful placement of all academic programs on the NQF Register.
Moreover, the University has achieved official academic recognition from the Ministry of Education in Jordan and Syria and has been featured on various international rankings, including the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, QS World University Rankings, QS Arab Region Universities Rankings, QS Top 50 under 50 Rankings, and QS Graduate Employability Ranking. The University has also achieved 4 Stars in the QS Stars Rating system and has been featured on the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. In addition to being the 1st and only University in Bahrain and the Gulf region to achieve both ISO 9001:2015 (for Quality Management Systems) and ISO 21001:2018 (for Educational Organizations Management Systems) certifications.
Furthermore, the University has been ranked 3rd in Bahrain and 4934 in the world in the international Ranking Web of Universities (webometrics) and has become an Accredited Center by Advance HE, a British professional membership scheme promoting excellence in higher education.
Overall, Applied Science University’s achievements demonstrate its commitment to providing quality education and contributing to the achievement of SDG 4 by ensuring inclusive and equitable access to education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. The University’s international recognition and accreditation demonstrate its dedication to providing a high standard of education and preparing students for successful careers in their chosen fields, contributing to the development of a skilled workforce and thriving society.