Bahrain Development Bank and Kingdom University Partner to Launch Training Programme for Business Students

Manama, Bahrain – 11 January 2024: The Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kingdom University to launch a work-based training programme for the University’s College of Business Administration students. The signing took place at Kingdom University’s campus on Tuesday, 9 January 2024 in the presence of Ms. Dalal Al Qais, Group CEO of BDB, and Prof. Hassan bin Rafdan Al-Hajhouj, President of Kingdom University.

In line with the Bank’s corporate social responsibility manifesto, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry by equipping future professionals with the practical skills and real-world experience needed to thrive in the competitive financial services sector.

Commenting on the occasion, BDB Group CEO Ms. Dalal Al Qais said, “We are excited to collaborate with a prestigious educational institution like Kingdom University. At BDB, we believe this important initiative will have a resounding impact on the Bahraini society, as well as the future of the banking sector in the Kingdom.”

She further added, “We look forward to collectively striving to produce generations of talented professionals who are capable of driving the development of the financial and banking sectors, which in turn will contribute to the prosperity of the Kingdom’s economy.”

For his part, Prof. Hassan bin Rafdan Al-Hajhouj, President of Kingdom University, said: “We highly appreciate our cooperation with Bahrain Development Bank in launching this distinguished training program, which is a valuable opportunity for students of the College of Business Administration at the university, as it will help them develop their skills and gain practical experience in the banking sector, which will enhance their chances of obtaining jobs after graduation. We are confident that this program will contribute to the development of a new generation of distinguished business professionals who will contribute to the development of the Kingdom.” The President of the University added: “This program is part of our commitment to provide high-quality education that meets the requirements of the labor market, and to strengthen partnership with the private sector in order to serve the community.”

The training programme will offer students an invaluable opportunity to work alongside some of the industry’s most elite professionals at BDB, Bahrain’s only MSME-specialised bank. Students will be integrated into various departments where they will work under experienced mentors who will guide and support them throughout their journey. This immersive experience will not only enhance their technical abilities but also cultivate essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, further preparing them to pursue successful careers in banking.

Bahrain Development Bank has a proven track record of championing impactful initiatives that empower the banking workforce. The Bank’s recent leadership development programme, launched in collaboration with the Institute of Public Administration, exemplifies its commitment to nurturing the next generation of banking leaders.