Building skills in AI and STEM

The Kingdom of Bahrain is dedicated to empowering its workforce and citizens through comprehensive initiatives aimed at enhancing skills in Artificial Intelligence and STEM. This is part of the government's broader vision to diversify the economy, enhance innovation, and equip the population with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital and technology-driven world. Bahrain’s efforts focus on several key groups, including, the general population, government employees, women and girls, and youth.

General Population

To ensure that the general population is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital era, Bahrain is running a range of national campaigns and initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and participation in AI and STEM education. These include partnerships with the Bahrain Labour Fund (Tamkeen), which offers specialized AI training programs such as Data Science and Artificial Intelligence trainings, certifications and programs, as well as courses in AI applications in specific industries like FinTech. These programs are accessible to a broad spectrum of individuals, empowering them to take part in the country's growing technology-driven economy.

Among the notable programs supported by Tamkeen is the partnership with General Assembly, a globally recognized tech academy offering expert-led training in areas such as Software Engineering, Data Analytics, UX Design, and Java Development. These courses are designed to equip learners with real-world, job-ready skills aligned with international standards.

Tamkeen also collaborates with Localized and Skills Union, providing online certifications in a wide range of digital skill areas. This includes training in Software Engineering, Java, Cloud Engineering, Data Science, Digital Marketing, UX Design, and Product Management. The program also facilitates connections with local and international experts, fostering broader exposure and mentorship opportunities.

Additionally, the Reboot01 program, developed in partnership with the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) and powered by Edu01, offers a two-year full stack development program. It aims to train Bahrainis to become proficient software developers through intensive, project-based learning and coding practice.

Youth

Youth engagement in AI and STEM fields is a cornerstone of Bahrain’s long-term strategy to build a future-ready workforce. The government supports a wide range of initiatives designed to inspire and equip the younger generation with digital skills and innovation-oriented mindsets. These include coding bootcamps, AI workshops, and national STEM competitions that offer students hands-on experience in developing AI models, programming, and building tech-based solutions.

A key example is His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Competition for Innovation in Artificial Intelligence. This annual competition brings together students from public and private schools and universities across Bahrain to foster innovation in AI. The competition aims to incubate young creative talents and test their ability to build innovative projects using Microsoft Azure’s AI features.

Additionally, Bahrain continues to expand access to formal education in AI and STEM disciplines. Universities such as Bahrain Polytechnic and the University of Bahrain have integrated AI into their curricula through required foundational courses, while also introducing new bachelor’s and master’s degree programs focused on AI, machine learning, data science, and related fields. These academic offerings create clear pathways for youth to pursue advanced studies and careers in emerging technologies.

Women and Girls

The government of Bahrain supports inclusive participation in the technology and innovation sectors, ensuring that women and girls have access to opportunities in AI and STEM fields. National initiatives aimed at building digital skills such as the training programs and courses supported by Tamkeen are also accessible to women and girls, enabling them to acquire in-demand expertise and contribute to Bahrain’s digital economy.

Government Employees

The Bahraini government recognizes the critical importance of upskilling its workforce in AI and STEM fields to ensure that public sector employees can effectively contribute to the country's digital transformation. Through strategic collaborations with national institutions, such as the Institute of Public Administration, the government provides a wide array of AI-related training programs for public sector employees. These courses are designed to enhance their understanding of data science, artificial intelligence applications, and innovative technologies in various sectors, including e-government and public service.

Additionally, the Innovation Hub at Information & eGovernment Authority serves as a pioneering initiative to drive digital transformation and foster a culture of innovation within the public sector. The hub focuses on developing and testing Minimum Viable Products, integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, blockchain, and augmented reality, and strengthening cross-government collaboration. It plays a crucial role in identifying government challenges, conducting research on emerging technologies, and supporting Bahrain’s position in the Global Innovation Index by enhancing digital skills, governance, and smart city initiatives.