Bahrain is set to introduce the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme in government schools starting from the new academic year in September 2026 – a milestone shift that aligns national education with globally recognised standards.
The move follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Education Minister Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma and IB Director-General Olli-Pekka Heinonen, at the ministry’s headquarters in Isa Town yesterday.
The agreement marks the first time the prestigious IB programme will be implemented within Bahrain’s government schools, despite the curriculum being taught in some private schools across the kingdom for nearly three decades.
Dr Juma described the initiative as a ‘qualitative leap’ in Bahrain’s educational journey, underscoring its importance in preparing students for a rapidly changing global environment.
He extended gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their continued support and commitment to advancing education in the kingdom.
“This pioneering step represents a historic milestone in the development of education in Bahrain and will have a significant positive impact on academic achievement and the educational future of our students,” Dr Juma said. Implementation will begin at the intermediate stage, starting from Grade Eight through the IB’s Middle Years Programme (MYP).
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Students who successfully complete this phase will progress to the Diploma Programme in secondary school, culminating in the award of the internationally recognised IB Diploma.
The ministry will announce in the coming period more details regarding admission criteria, evaluation mechanisms, and the registration process for students wishing to enrol in the programme.
IB is one of the world’s most respected education frameworks, known for its rigorous academic standards, emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and the development of well-rounded, globally minded learners.
“By introducing IB in government schools, Bahrain aims to broaden access to world-class education, enhance competitiveness among graduates, and strengthen pathways to leading universities worldwide,” said the minister.
He described the move as ‘one of the most significant education reforms in recent years’, which signals Bahrain’s ‘clear commitment to excellence, innovation, and global integration in learning’.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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