Plans to promote the academic standards of Bahrain University were approved yesterday.

The scheme was unveiled by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa who chaired the Economic Development Board (EDB) meeting.

It aims to foster students' practical skills and to promote scientific research which can be used as a catalyst to serve the community and the national economy.

University president Dr Ibrahim Janahi gave a presentation detailing the initiatives in line with the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

He also pointed out a number of challenges facing the university.

These include, promoting self-reliance and reaching world academic standards.

The need for the university to reach out to public and private enterprises was also stressed.

Presentation

The Bahrain Training Institute (BTI) director general also gave a presentation detailing vocational programmes in-line with the growing needs of the labour market.

He highlighted the capability of the institute to offer highly efficient vocational training.

He outlined key BTI-planned educational programmes in line with the Vision 2030.

HRH the Crown Prince inquired about the steps taken so far to open up pharmacies and other medical sectors.

He gave directives to implement the project to create a competitive sector ensuring Bahrainis better services at affordable prices.