Lifelong learning in Bahrain applies to individuals of all ages and levels, and encompasses full and part-time education and training. There is a particular focus on employed people. All further and higher educational and training establishments, universities, private training institutes, agencies and bodies cater for these needs.

Lifelong learning

The Directorate of Continuing Education at the Ministry of Education in Bahrain is carrying out a major initiative in lifelong learning - educational programmes in literacy.

The literacy programme

The literacy and adult education programme lasts for six academic years and covers these stages:

Literacy stage:

A basic stage lasting two academic years for those who cannot read and write. Subjects include Islamic education, Arabic language and mathematics. It is equivalent to the fourth grade level of basic education.

Follow-up Stage:

This lasts for two academic years and is open to people who have obtained the literacy stage certificate. On completing this stage, students are awarded a certificate equivalent to the sixth grade certificate of formal primary education. Subjects taught include Islamic education, Arabic language, mathematics, English language, sciences and social studies.

Consolidation Stage:

This is equivalent to the formal intermediate level. It is open to those who completed the follow-up stage or to people who did not complete formal education. Curriculum content is the same as that of third cycle (intermediate level) of formal Basic Education. It is revised to include terminological bases to be given in two instead of three years. Subjects include Islamic education, Arabic language, mathematics, English language, sciences and social studies (history and geography).

Other prominent training providers offering lifelong learning opportunities to Bahrainis, both in conjunction with the government support and independently, include:

Bahrain Training Institute:

A premier semi-autonomous vocational training provider that offers a wide range of short-term courses and long-term programmes in a variety of disciplines to support the lifelong learning aspirations of Bahraini job seekers and corporate personnel.

Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance:

A professional, world class provider of performance improvement solutions to individuals, the financial services sector and other organisations.

Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail Training:

A specialist institute to train Bahrainis in retail and hospitality fields, offering excellent training and lifelong learning opportunities.