Arab Open University Earns “Compliant” Rating with National Framework Standards from the Education & Training Quality Authority
The Arab Open University – Kingdom of Bahrain has been officially awarded a “Compliant with the National Framework for the Review of Higher Education Institutions" rating by the Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA), in coordination with the Higher Education Council (HEC), after successfully undergoing a comprehensive review of its academic and administrative practices. The certificate was presented to the university by Dr. Mariam Hassan Mustafa, Chief Executive of BQA, in the presence of Dr. Diana Abdul Karim Al-Jahrami, Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council.
This milestone reflects the university's continuous efforts to develop its academic programs, enhance its infrastructure and learning environment, and provide the necessary support for both students and faculty in accordance with international best practices. Moreover, it highlights AOU's ongoing commitment to strengthening its internal quality assurance systems aimed at achieving excellence in all areas of institutional performance.
Dr. Najma Taqi, Director of the Arab Open University – Bahrain Branch, reaffirmed the university's dedication to adhering to national standards as part of its social responsibility and partnership in realizing the Kingdom of Bahrain's Vision. She emphasized the importance of AOU's collaboration with the Open University in the United Kingdom in enhancing the academic quality of its programs and ensuring the integrity of its assessment processes in line with international benchmarks.
Dr. Taqi further noted that the university is keen on equipping its graduates for the labor market by offering employment opportunities through strategic partnerships with local and international entities. She, also, highlighted the university's commitment to promoting scientific research and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting AOU's active role in contributing to Bahrain's national development and societal progress.
Looking ahead, Dr. Taqi stated that the university will focus on introducing innovative educational programs that incorporate the latest digital technologies required by the job market, enabling students to gain interactive learning experiences that enhance their skills and prepare them for future demands.
Ms. Tanaji Ahmed, Head of the Quality Assurance and Accreditation Department, emphasized the significance of such institutional reviews in elevating the quality of education and improving learning outcomes. She praised the valuable contributions and expertise of AOU faculty and staff in sustaining institutional success and excellence. She, also, confirmed the university's pursuit of several international accreditations and academic partnerships to further enhance its programs and improve employment prospects for its graduates.
It is worth noting that the Arab Open University was established in Bahrain in 2002 by the late Royal Highness Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (may he rest in peace) under the umbrella of the Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND), as a non-profit developmental educational institution.