Nations on the path to progress and prosperity universally recognise the paramount importance of science and education. Japan and Singapore serve as exemplary models in this regard, showcasing how education is the foremost tool for nurturing future generations and forging a brighter tomorrow, even in the face of formidable challenges and limited resources.
As I observed students returning to their schools and universities recently, I couldn’t help but see in them the very future of Bahrain. Their vibrancy and laughter hold the promise of further advancement and modernisation for our beloved nation.
My sense of joy and pride reached its zenith that day, ignited by His Majesty King Hamad’s address at the commencement of the new academic year. His Majesty’s words underscored an unwavering commitment to elevating the educational and academic processes to attain the highest educational standards, aligning with the dynamic developments in the labour market. This commitment extends to nurturing students not only in their scientific pursuits but also in their ethical and moral growth, fostering a deep sense of national identity.
Reflecting on His Majesty’s emphasis on science and education, we can trace Bahrain’s remarkable achievements under his guidance. These encompass pioneering ventures into space science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and cutting-edge technologies. The nation’s focus centres on transforming Bahrain into a haven for innovative scientific concepts and practical applications across advanced domains, including financial technology.
To secure our future and engage in competition with scientifically advanced nations, it is imperative that we move beyond traditional educational methods. Bahrain has emerged as a trailblazer in this progressive mindset, thanks to our King, who displays a remarkable dedication to the cause of education, its practitioners and its learners. This approach is not only reassuring but also deeply gratifying, as it offers tremendous promise.
Certainly, curricula, infrastructure, laboratories and educational resources are vital components of the educational process, but their significance takes a back seat to the pivotal role played by educators. These individuals possess the remarkable capacity to nurture a genuine passion for learning within their students.
Singapore’s journey towards modern progress serves as a notable example. The nation recognised the pivotal role of educators and, consequently, elevated them to the apex of the professional hierarchy. They were rewarded with substantial salaries and privileges. Over time, this approach has proven its wisdom, as the nation soared to new heights with the dedicated efforts of its teachers. They laid the foundation for human development, upon which the pillars of health, tourism, investment and financial prosperity were subsequently erected.
While I am involved in various investments, including the hospitality and real estate sectors, one that holds a special place in my heart is my commitment to education.
Indeed, my profound affection for education played a significant role – among other motivations – in my decision to acquire the British School in Bahrain several years ago, followed by the Quest School. Each success achieved by these institutions, with their globally acclaimed educational systems, reflects not only personal achievement but also a triumph for Bahrain, a source of immense pride for me.
I wish to underscore, drawing from my experience and knowledge, that every dinar invested in our educational system yields returns tenfold in terms of its benefits to the economy, culture and society as a whole. From a business perspective, I can affirm that increasing investment in education stands as the most pragmatic way to invest, even surpassing the returns on natural resources.
In Bahrain, we possess a robust foundation of educational prosperity extending back more than a century. Bahrain boasts one of the Arabian Gulf’s and the region’s oldest public education systems, with schools evolving in their modern form since the early 20th century.
Notably, Bahrain was the first Gulf nation to establish regular government schools for girls. It is often remarked that one of the positive outcomes of Bahrain’s modern education system has been the unification of children from diverse backgrounds, fostering a shared national identity and mitigating the emergence of sectarian divisions. This underscores education’s role in enlightening minds and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Bahrain’s economy currently faces challenging times, and the era of heavy reliance on oil may soon come to an end. It is imperative that the private sector takes the lead in driving economic growth. Therefore, the upcoming generation of Bahraini children must possess the qualities of creativity, innovation, and the ability to seize opportunities and generate revenue. In this context, education plays an unequivocally pivotal role.
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