JEDDAH, 5 November 2003 — In an effort to highlight the opportunities provided by the Gulf University in Bahrain, a delegation from the university touring the GCC arrived here yesterday.
The delegation headed by Dr. Mona Al-Zayani, the president of the university, will be answering inquiries by prospective students about the academic programs, registration, scholarships and financial benefits provided by the university. It can be contacted at the Jeddah Marriott Hotel.
“What distinguishes the GU is that it is directly connected academically with the University of London, one of the Top 10 universities in the world and accredited by all the higher education ministries in the GCC states, the Middle East, Europe and North America,” Dr. Al-Zayani told Arab News.
GU is one of the few institutions in the Gulf that offer Bahraini and Gulf nationals an opportunity to acquire a bachelor’s degree from the University of London as well as degrees from the GU without having to leave the Gulf.
“We developed a curriculum based on Western education systems and standards tailored to meet the needs of the students in the Gulf and the Middle East while also incorporating subjects like Islamic law and other Islamic subjects required in our society,” she said. “One of the main obstacles Gulf students face in their academic career is English language skills. But we provide a good basis for developing those skills. Also, the students lack enthusiasm and the desire to be challenged, so we added a scholarship and bonus program for outstanding students as a way to give them a strong push ahead.”
Dr. Al-Zayani said that there were optional segregated classes for those who wish to attend women-only lectures.
GU was established two and a half years ago. It currently offers eight BA degrees including business administration, accounting, finance and computer sciences, but more will be introduced.
