A Bahrain-based research project highlighting the importance of digital literacy among older individuals has been shortlisted for a prestigious international award.
The study entitled ‘Digital Empowerment for Older Adults in Bahrain: Bridging the Grey Digital Divide’ will compete alongside seven other regional institutions for the Research Project of the Year: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Arab World 2026.
The paper examines how older adults can be equipped with practical digital skills to access online government services, healthcare platforms, communication tools and other everyday digital services with greater confidence and independence.
A team from University of Technology Bahrain (UTB) conducted the project in collaboration with the Social Development Ministry and international partners. The article was then featured in Unesco’s latest global publication on digital inclusion and lifelong learning.
“This research was inspired by Bahrain Vision 2030’s commitment to ‘leaving no one behind’ and the belief that older adults should be empowered to participate fully in today’s digital society,” UTB research team lead Dr Anthonia Bamidele said.
“By working closely with older learners and community partners, we sought to develop practical approaches that promote confidence, independence and lifelong learning. We hope the insights from Bahrain will contribute to future digital inclusion initiatives across the region,” she added.
Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 was launched in 2008 and is a roadmap for developing the economy, focusing on the main goal of improving living standards for all citizens.
The kingdom currently has around 85,419 people aged 60 and above.
As Bahrain’s population continues to age, with an average life expectancy of 65 years for men and 77 years for women, there is a growing need to empower older citizens with digital literacy skills to help them remain productive and continue contributing to the economy.
Bahrain has always been committed to the welfare of older individuals and was one of the first Arab countries to establish a dedicated platform – the National Committee for the Elderly – in 1984.
Over the years, several initiatives have been launched for older people, focusing on housing, healthcare and social welfare, among other areas. These include digital inclusion programmes, which are an integral part of the National Development Strategy 2030.
The Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) stages regular workshops to train citizens.
Additionally, applications such as Sehati and the National Portal (Bahrain.bh) have been designed with accessibility features to better support older users.
The GDN has previously reported on awareness programmes for the elderly focused on online safety.
The latest study led by UTB complements these efforts, highlighting the synergy between the public and private sectors.
The project is expected to enter a second phase, which will include further stakeholder engagement, community outreach activities with older adults, and the development of policy recommendations aimed at strengthening digital inclusion across the region.
“This recognition demonstrates how UTB is advancing research that creates meaningful impact for society,” UTB president Dr Hasan Almulla noted.
“We are proud to see the University of Technology Bahrain being shortlisted and gain international recognition, reinforcing our commitment to innovation, inclusion and sustainable development.”
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