The University of Strathclyde has announced plans for a major scale-up of its activity in Bahrain.

Drawing on its track record in teaching, research and innovation, the institution is to create University of Strathclyde, Bahrain.

Partnering with S Eleven Educational, Strathclyde will bring its distinctive approach and extensive experience in driving local economic development to the project – capitalising on the University’s proven ability to cultivate leading-edge innovation ecosystems that activate “Triple Helix” collaborations between industry, public sector and academia.

The expansion sees the University building on its experience of working in Bahrain, where it has delivered MBA teaching in its international centre since 1995.

The first phase of the new project – based in the capital Manama – will focus on the education workstream with courses offered in a range of subjects across Engineering, Science and Business. Later phases will see developments in research and innovation.

Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Strathclyde, said: “We are delighted to significantly expand our operations in Bahrain. S Eleven have recognised Strathclyde’s distinctiveness in education, research and innovation and selected us as their preferred strategic partner to help deliver an exciting vision for Bahrain’s new economy.

“Strathclyde is already the anchor university within two thriving Innovation Districts – Glasgow City Innovation District (GCID), Scotland’s first such entity, and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS), and we look forward to helping to develop a similar ecosystem in Manama.

“We are attracted by the opportunity to broaden our horizons in Bahrain, expanding our activities and reach into the region generally, and nurturing a thriving community of learners and innovators in collaboration with S Eleven Educational.”

Accepting students from September 2024, teaching will take place in world-class educational and research facilities that boast cutting-edge amenities including laboratories, libraries, lecture halls, and an innovation hub. Students will primarily be drawn from the surrounding region, principally Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Mr. Khaled Al Hammadi, Managing Director of S Eleven Group said: “This partnership with the University of Strathclyde is a significant leap forward in our mission to invest in the educational landscape and introduce global standards of learning to Bahrain and the broader region.

“This venture will not only provide unparalleled academic resources to our students but also attract international scholars and researchers, enriching our educational ecosystem. It mirrors the experience offered by Strathclyde in Scotland, extending its reach and impact to our shores.”