The Gulf region has gained 15 new waste management specialists after the latest graduates completed the Arabian Gulf University’s Professional Diploma Programme, further strengthening regional sustainability and environmental protection.
The new cohort brings the total number of graduates since the programme’s launch in October 2021 to 106.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Abdulelah Al Matash described the programme as a unique academic and professional experience that deepened participants’ understanding of sustainability, environmental protection and the importance of waste management in building more efficient cities and sustainable economies.
“It broadened our perspective on environmental and social responsibility through concepts such as the circular economy and environmental sustainability, while helping transform environmental challenges into opportunities for development and innovation,” he said.
He also pointed to the achievements of previous graduates, noting that one graduate of an earlier cohort had advanced to a senior position in a ministry, demonstrating the impact of investing in national talent and specialised professional education.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony AGU president Dr Saad Al Fahaid stressed the importance of specialised programmes that address the evolving needs of the Gulf labour market while supporting environmental sustainability and resource management.
“Growing environmental challenges have made the preparation of specialised professionals a development priority,” he said, highlighting the programme’s role in equipping experts with the knowledge and skills to keep pace with modern sustainability practices.
Dr Al Fahaid also expressed his appreciation to Bahrain’s government and GCC leaders for their continued support of education, development initiatives, and efforts to empower Gulf talent.
Community Service, Consultancy, Training, and Continuing Education Centre director Dr Afaf Bougui highlighted the importance of programmes that align with future transformations across different sectors.
The Professional Diploma Programme in Waste Management has received international accreditation for the second consecutive year from the Chartered Institute of Waste Management (CIWM) in the UK, making it the first programme of its kind in the Gulf and the Arab region to achieve this accreditation, in addition to receiving support from the United Nations Environment Programme – West Asia Office.
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