The Arab Open University (AOU) in the Kingdom of Bahrain signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ebdaa Bahrain Bank to provide facilitated educational loans for students, support student and graduate entrepreneurs, develop their skills, enhance their readiness for the job market, and promote financial inclusion in Bahrain.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Najma Taqi, President of the Arab Open University – Bahrain, and Dr. Khaled Al-Ghazawi, CEO of Ebdaa Bahrain Bank, reflecting both parties' commitment to strengthening cooperation in education, finance, and community development.

This strategic partnership aims to support multiple areas, including educational loans, student capacity-building, scientific research, and joint community initiatives. The agreement will provide facilitated educational loans, support entrepreneurial projects for students and graduates, and implement targeted training programs for Ebdaa Bahrain employees.

Additionally, the agreement includes organizing workshops, seminars, and capacity-building programs to serve the local community. It also allows Ebdaa Bahrain Bank employees to enroll in the university's academic programs, enhancing their educational and professional opportunities. While AOU students will gain practical exposure to finance and entrepreneurship.

The MoU also covers cooperation in joint scientific research, utilizing university facilities for training, and continuous knowledge exchange, contributing to Bahrain's national development goals. In this context, Dr. Najma Taqi stated:

"At the Arab Open University, we believe in the importance of strategic partnerships that empower students academically and professionally, supporting their educational journey. This agreement with Ebdaa Bahrain Bank is a significant step toward enabling our students to turn their entrepreneurial ideas into real projects and equipping them with the financial knowledge needed for a more stable and sustainable future."

For his part, Dr. Al-Ghazawi noted:

" Ebdaa Bahrain Bank and the university are integral to the initiatives of the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, which aimed at the social and economic empowerment of underprivileged groups in all aspects. This collaboration between the two institutions aligns with the vision led by His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, President of the Arab Gulf Program for Development (AGFUND) and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Open University."