Two Bahraini engineers have made history as the first Arab women to complete an international training programme at Portsmouth Naval Base in the UK.
Engineers Ameera Hashem and Marwa Al Nazer completed the three-month placement with BAE Systems, supported by the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) under its global work experience programme.
Fawzi Kanoo, chairman of Bahrain Ship Repairing and Engineering Company (Basrec), welcomed the engineers and commended their distinguished representation of Bahrain.
He highlighted the milestone in advancing women’s roles in the maritime sector and noted that it builds on Basrec’s long-standing relationship with BAE Systems in maintaining Royal Navy vessels in the Arabian Gulf.
During the placement from June to August 2026, the engineers gained practical experience in asset management, ship repair, safety compliance, and testing.
Narjis Almoosawi, acting chief executive of Basrec, said: “We are proud of Ameera and Marwa’s achievement and of them being the first two Arab female engineers to participate in this training programme with BAE Systems at the Naval Base.
“Their achievement reflects the capabilities of Bahraini talent and the growing presence of women in the maritime sector.”
BAE Systems managing director Scott Jamieson praised their professionalism.
Ameera and Marwa expressed gratitude to Basrec and Tamkeen, stating they look forward to applying international best practices to advance Basrec’s technical capabilities.
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