Similar to any other economic sector, the academic education plays a significant role in boosting the country economic status. It has been considered an investor partner, as it now operates with established structures and principles. It offers returns and has its own set of guidelines, stakeholders, and responsibilities. At present, the academic institution is not just a mission-driven entity, or it is purely commercial or profit-oriented, instead, it serves as a valuable investment prospect for the private sector, a platform for deploying capital and business ventures, a hub for experts in various fields, and a center for cutting-edge research and advanced technology, as well as contemporary sciences and future-oriented studies.
“Al-Watan”, therefore, in an exclusive interview with Professor Abdullah Al-Hawaj, a key figure in Bahraini private education, discussed the topic of educational investment. As he is the Founding President of Ahlia University and chairman of Board of Trustees, Al-Hawaj has played a significant role in shaping this sector. Our discussion highlights his unique perspective, not just as an academic and one of the first to earn a PhD in Bahrain, but as the pioneer of the first private university. His vision for education was further solidified when he was appointed by royal decree, more than 23 years ago, to represent the education sector within the Supreme Committee for the National Action Charter.
– You’ve often discussed how education should be a core component of the economy. After over 20 years of investment in academic education and with your experience as the Founding President of Ahlia University about 23 years ago, how do you see the current state of investment in this sector?
– I have consistently emphasized the importance of investing in education. I still believe that education is a vital part of Bahrain’s economy, serving as a key driver for adding value, improving core outcomes, and supporting the national budget. Collaboration among various institutions is essential, particularly those linked to education, such as immigration, tourism, and regulatory bodies such as the Education and Training Quality Authority and the Higher Education Council. These organizations work closely with the Ministry of Education to advance science and learning across both private and public universities. We’ve frequently discussed diversifying income sources, leading to the development of financial, banking, and insurance sectors.
Since the mid-1970s, Bahrain has established itself as a major global financial center, connecting the East and West and hosting numerous international financial institutions. Just as we pioneered formal education in the region, we now play a central role in facilitating financial transactions between America, Europe, and the East. Our shift towards diversification became crucial when we recognized that oil is a finite resource. The true and endless wealth lies in ideas and human creativity, which are inspired not from beneath the earth but through a higher vision and the determination of those living in this land.
Vision and Its Elements
– If you see a clear economic advantage in investing in education, what are the key components of this vision?
– Several factors make Bahrain well-positioned to become a leading center for knowledge, technology, and advanced education:
- Diverse Educational Institutions: Bahrain hosts over 20 universities, serving a population of no more than 1.5 million.
- Historical and Legislative Foundations: The country’s rich history and strong legislative support, along with local and international accreditations, offered for our universities, their programs, and curricula.
- Innovative and Global Standards: The creativity in designing educational programs and aligning them with market needs is supported by world-class faculty, enhancing local academic standards to an international level.
- Advanced Infrastructure: Bahrain offers a sophisticated information and communication infrastructure, open global markets, and regulatory frameworks that ensure regional and international recognition for our graduates’ degrees.
- Hospitality and Expertise: The welcoming nature of Bahrain’s people, combined with a high level of educational qualifications, creates a supportive environment for students. Additionally, the King Fahd Causeway connects Bahrain with Saudi Arabia, expanding our reach and strengthening ties with the Gulf region.
These components create a significant opportunity to attract 20,000 to 30,000 additional students from the region to Bahraini universities, potentially contributing over a billion dollars annually to the national economy. With the extensive number of universities and diverse programs available, meeting student needs is entirely achievable.
Balance Over Elimination
– Some voices suggest eliminating theoretical colleges. What’s your opinion?
– Although some voices in the region call for the elimination of theoretical colleges, I believe balance is crucial. We shouldn’t approach challenges by removing or canceling them. Instead, we need to foster a culture of balance, making thoughtful decisions and ensuring alignment when addressing sector-specific issues. Sometimes, issues should be resolved before considering more drastic measures. This approach helps us maintain a knowledge-based economy rather than one driven by randomness. I urge all relevant agencies to work on promoting Bahraini universities both regionally and internationally. We need to recognize the importance of our goals and develop a clear, actionable plan with specific objectives and timelines. Bahrain has the potential to become a leading destination for educational tourism and a hub for knowledge investment. Eliminating theoretical disciplines is a mistake, as theory forms the foundation of knowledge itself. There must be a synergy between theory and practice, application and learning, as well as between traditional and innovative approaches.
Bold Decisions
– Is there real encouragement for the private sector to invest in education?
– There is no doubt that there is a strong motive for investing in education, with visible support and facilitation from decision-makers. However, as I’ve noted, we need bolder decisions to truly integrate the private sector as a key partner in both decision-making and execution. The government should act as a regulator and planner, developing strategies in collaboration with the private sector, which would then be responsible for implementing them. The government monitors, while the private sector works diligently within the set regulations. This model has enabled advanced countries to make greater strides and helped struggling nations improve their conditions.
A Golden Opportunity
In the past, Bahrain pioneered formal education over a century ago and welcomed its first bank alongside its first formal school, Al-Hidaya Al-Khalifiya. Today, we have a prime opportunity to establish Bahrain as a leading hub for advanced education and regain our historic prominence among GCC nations. Bahrain is well-equipped with its strong infrastructure, supportive regulations, excellent living conditions, and outstanding universities. Moreover, Bahrain’s high global ranking for quality of life makes it an attractive destination for students throughout the region.
Promising Direction
– If Bahrain is well-positioned to become a center for advanced education and private sector investments in this area are proving beneficial, do you support the idea proposed by the Bahrain Stock Exchange to list shares of private universities, even if they remain privately held for now?
– This is an excellent initiative, and I strongly support the idea of listing university shares on the Bahrain Stock Exchange. It would bring transparency to these institutions and reflect their true administrative, academic, and financial status. I welcome the possibility of our private universities becoming public entities managed with an economic approach, accurately determining their market value and securing the necessary funding for growth and development of educational infrastructure.
No Harm, No Foul
– Do you support the idea of establishing independent research institutions, such as a national research center outside universities or a center focused on knowledge and modern technologies?
– Absolutely, there is no downside to having public, private, or joint research centers, whether inside or outside universities. I also support Bahraini universities playing a national role similar to how Korean institutions helped “Hyundai” recover through transformative and innovative research, significantly improving its global market position. We encourage scientific research and researchers in our universities, where we have experts who match or surpass their global peers. However, this also requires supportive legislation and effective regulations. Creating and localizing knowledge production should be achieved throughout following a clear protocol and well-structured guidelines.
Localization of Knowledge
– You’ve emphasized the importance of producing and localizing knowledge rather than relying on imports. Is this achievable, and what are the necessary conditions?
– Moving from being consumers of knowledge to producers is feasible due to the large number of internationally accredited universities we have. I am proud of this, particularly with institutions like Ahlia University, which has globally recognized experts, including the top mathematician of 2023 according to recent Chinese evaluations, as well as renowned Arab researchers from Bahrain and the region, in the fields of management, finance, IT, and FinTech. Additionally, Ahlia University has published around 150 peer-reviewed articles in international journals within a year. Such progress can help elevate Bahrain to a prominent scientific and economic position.
