Bahrain continues to strengthen its research role in the Gulf as the Derasat Board of Trustees held its fourth meeting of the year in Awali. The gathering highlighted new cooperation efforts and fresh programs aimed at driving regional progress. The meeting also showcased Bahrain’s growing commitment to future-focused research and policy development.
The chairman of Derasat opened the meeting by praising the outcomes of the recent Gulf Summit in Bahrain. He stated that the summit encouraged deeper cooperation across the region. Moreover, he noted that the focus on digital transformation and knowledge growth aligns perfectly with Derasat’s long-term vision. He explained that these priorities help every research center contribute effectively to Gulf unity and development.
During the session, the board reviewed the center’s main achievements from the past quarter. The members discussed major projects, partnerships, and events that aim to support driving regional progress. They highlighted the center’s active role in hosting intellectual discussions, producing strategic studies, and building strong regional ties.
The board also reviewed the visit of several Arab and international delegations, which included a notable visit from a Saudi delegation earlier this year. These exchanges encouraged fresh ideas, new cooperation opportunities, and continued engagement with leading institutions.
Additionally, the meeting praised Derasat for organizing sessions on Bahrain’s experience in the Security Council, the future of nuclear energy, artificial intelligence training, and social research topics. The members also highlighted recent studies on the gender education gap within the Gulf and the economic value of public libraries across the Arab world. They noted the center’s participation in international forums, including the MEDays 2025 Forum in Morocco.
The board then reviewed memoranda of understanding with regional and international partners. These agreements support research in fields like sustainability, governance, environment, and energy. The members also discussed the progress of the “Digital Transformation in Bahrain” report and the center’s participation in the first national entrepreneurship report.
Furthermore, the board confirmed final preparations for the annual Studies Forum, which will take place on December 22 and 23. The event will gather leading research institutions from across the Arab world. In addition, Derasat plans to launch a new book documenting Bahrain’s long-standing role within the League of Arab States. The publication offers an academic view of Bahrain’s contributions over five decades.
In closing, the chairman emphasized that Derasat will continue expanding its research, training, and strategic programs. He added that the center aims to stay aligned with Bahrain’s national goals and international developments while consistently driving regional progress.
