Education Sector

A comprehensive educational renaissance that illuminates the educational journey in the Kingdom through the launch of numerous national institutions and significant educational projects, whether in early education, school education, university education, or others

Since the beginning of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s reign, the Kingdom of Bahrain has made substantial progress in education, establishing key national institutions and launching significant educational initiatives across early childhood, school, and higher education.

Education is a top priority in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with His Majesty placing strong emphasis on its development, supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This focus has led to improved educational infrastructure, new institutions, enhanced teacher skills, promotion of higher education, and increased opportunities for students with special needs. Bahrain's commitment to high standards has delivered notable achievements recognised locally, regionally, and internationally, as documented in the reports of renowned regional and global educational organisations.

Bahrain’s educational development is rooted in the goals of the comprehensive development process, led by His Majesty the King, and over a century of educational legacy, focusing on modernising programmes and curricula. The educational system now incorporates principles of citizenship, responsibility, human rights, and tolerance, while also keeping pace with global trends in mathematics, science, and digital skills.

Key milestones include the founding of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain in 2004, the Higher Education Council in 2005, and the UNESCO-King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa Prize for the Use of ICT in Education. In 2006, the Institute of Public Administration was established, followed by the creation of the Education and Training Quality Authority, Bahrain Teachers College, and Bahrain Polytechnic in 2008. The Isa bin Salman Education Charitable Trust was established in 2013.

Under His Majesty’s leadership, the number of public and private schools has grown from 177 before 1999 to 293 by 2024, the number of Higher education institutions grew from two before 1999 to 18 in 2024, while kindergartens grew from 34 to 227, alongside 73 training institutes and centres.