Manama: Al Mabarrah Al Khalifia Foundation (MKF) has awarded two additional grants dedicated to scientific research within its Rayaat scholarship programme, extended through the late HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman al Khalifa Scholarship in partnership with Ahlia University. The step reflects the Foundation's continued commitment to advancing higher education while fostering a stronger culture of research and innovation in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the awarding of the two grants is in line with MKF's strategic mandate to strengthen the national research ecosystem and enable Bahraini talent to undertake high-quality research projects that contribute to local sustainable development priorities. This initiative is the result of the Foundation's ongoing collaboration with Ahlia University, as well as its active role in strengthening research and advancing key academic and community-driven projects. It also demonstrates MKF's ongoing efforts to expand the scope of the scholarship programme beyond funding academic studies to support knowledge production and the advancement of scientific research.
Her Highness Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Al Mabarrah Al Khalifia Foundation, said that the awarding of the two grants represents a natural extension of the Foundation's mission to invest in Bahraini talent and reinforce the pillars of academic and research excellence. She noted that scientific research is a fundamental driver of a sustainable and competitive knowledge-based economy that keeps pace with rapid transformations.
HH Shaikha Zain bint Khalid added that partnerships with national academic institutions help guide these efforts towards areas of national priority, thereby enhancing the quality of outcomes, aligning them with the needs of society and the labour market, and generating tangible impact across multiple sectors. She expressed appreciation for the constructive collaboration with Ahlia University, which contributed to the success of the initiative.
Professor Abdulla Yusuf Abdulwahab Al Hawaj, Founding President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ahlia University, expressed pride in the collaboration with MKF, noting that the initiative marks a significant step in advancing scientific research and strengthening its role within Bahrain's academic landscape. He added that the grants reflect growing recognition of the importance of scientific research in supporting comprehensive development, enabling researchers to present high-quality projects that address the needs of various sectors and respond to rapid challenges and developments.
He further added that the project opens wider opportunities for students and researchers to develop innovative scientific solutions that integrate theoretical learning with practical application in a way that supports the Kingdom's transition towards an innovation- and knowledge-driven economy.
This initiative will further deepen the connection between the academic sector, the needs of society and the labour market, while creating a stimulating environment for distinguished researchers and students to conduct applied research with practical impact.