Manama: Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, received Professor Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor, Chief Executive Officer and Registrar of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Dublin (RCSI), and Professor Sameer Otoom, President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) - Medical University of Bahrain. Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah stressed the importance of bolstering strategic partnerships with renowned academic and medical institutions to enhance the national healthcare system in Bahrain. This effort aligns with the comprehensive development goals led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and guided by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that this strategic approach aims to foster a sustainable healthcare system grounded in knowledge and innovation. It is intended to enrich the medical sector with qualified professionals, adhering to international standards. These efforts are expected to positively impact the quality of healthcare services available to citizens and residents and strengthen Bahrain's status as a hub for education and advanced medical research.
Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah underscored the role of higher education institutions, such as RCSI Bahrain, in advancing the educational landscape in the Kingdom. He highlighted the necessity of aligning academic programmes and curricula with the latest advancements in medicine and health sciences, thereby supporting development plans in education and healthcare sectors to maximize investment in human capital.
The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the significance of ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange with international universities. Such cooperation is vital to creating a conducive environment for scientific research and nurturing young leaders capable of addressing future health challenges with expertise and efficiency.
The meeting also discussed the progress of the new academic building at the university, focusing on the facilities that will support the expansion of academic and training programmes in medical education.
Professor Kelly expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support from the government. He reiterated the university's commitment to leveraging its resources and expertise to support the Kingdom's developmental and health objectives.