Bahrain’s schools are rapidly evolving into smart, AI-enabled learning environments, with 130 institutions now internationally recognised as technology-integrated campuses.
Ambitious plans are also underway to provide every student with a personalised virtual assistant, Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma said.
In a detailed written reply to a parliamentary question submitted by Shura Council second vice-chairwoman Dr Jihad Al Fadhel, Dr Juma outlined how the ministry is embedding artificial intelligence, digital platforms and advanced infrastructure across the kingdom’s public schools to reshape teaching, assessment and student engagement.
The minister said the transformation was already yielding measurable improvements by narrowing learning gaps between students and enhancing the efficiency of teaching and evaluation processes, both in terms of time and effort.
He revealed that Bahrain had achieved a global milestone with 130 schools earning the title of ‘technology-integrated schools’ under programmes supported by Microsoft, reflecting the success of the smart schools strategy and reinforcing the kingdom’s standing in digital education at an international level.
Dr Juma explained that schools are now using a broad range of modern technologies, including educational robotics, programming tools such as Micro:bit, and virtual and augmented reality to create immersive, interactive learning experiences that deepen students’ understanding of scientific concepts.
He highlighted the central role of the national education portal EduNet, which provides a fully integrated digital environment for delivering lessons, assigning homework, conducting online examinations and enhancing interaction between teachers and students.
“These technologies have significantly accelerated students’ completion of academic tasks and increased digital engagement, while also enabling the creation of a large educational database that forms the foundation for developing generative AI applications,” Dr Juma said.
Looking ahead, the minister disclosed plans to upgrade EduNet into a comprehensive smart platform powered by generative AI, capable of providing each student with a personalised virtual assistant.
“This assistant will help students understand lessons more deeply and offer tailored academic support based on their individual needs,” he noted.
Future plans also include expanding the use of virtual laboratories linked directly to student accounts, offering advanced digital learning environments aligned with the latest global practices.
Dr Juma stressed that Bahrain’s schools already enjoy high-speed wireless networks, a transition to cloud computing, and the capacity to process large volumes of data efficiently for simultaneous users.
“Schools have been equipped with smart devices such as laptops and interactive boards, supported by specialised educational software aligned with curricula,” he added. “Advanced cybersecurity systems have also been deployed to protect data and ensure user privacy, alongside dedicated technical support teams to maintain uninterrupted operations.”
The minister said extensive training programmes had been rolled out for teachers and administrators, covering virtual classroom management, AI tools, student data analysis and lesson planning.
“Training includes programming languages such as Python for secondary students and Scratch for primary levels, as well as workshops on using AI applications to improve English language skills,” he explained.
“Teachers are also being trained on tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, alongside prompt engineering skills, enabling them to integrate AI effectively into classroom practice.”
The ministry, he added, is working closely with Microsoft and national entities such as the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority to further strengthen digital infrastructure and training programmes.
Dr Al Fadhel praised the ministry’s swift response and described the vision for AI integration as ‘positive and forward-looking’.
However, she stressed the importance of evaluating how teacher training translates into real classroom performance, strengthening governance mechanisms for AI use in schools, and ensuring that ethical safeguards are practically implemented.
She also called for greater involvement of parents as partners in promoting safe technology use beyond the school environment, and for expanding the use of robotics, VR and AR across all schools to support interactive learning.
While welcoming the idea of a virtual assistant for every student, she cautioned against over-reliance on such tools, noting potential risks related to screen time and social interaction.
Members were notified during yesterday’s Shura Council session about the minister’s reply and Dr Al Fadhel’s comments on it.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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