RCSI Medical University of Bahrain hosted today a celebration marking Bahraini Women's Day in the esteemed presence of Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, member of the Supreme Council for Women, member of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Committee in Sports and recipient of the Arab Sports Personality of the Year as part of the prestigious 2024 Shaikha Fatima bint Mubarak Women Sports Award.

Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa was welcomed on campus by Professor Deborah McNamara, President of RCSI in Dublin and Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain.

Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa commented: "It gives me great pleasure to participate in the Bahraini Women's Day celebrations at RCSI Medical University of Bahrain and have the opportunity to engage with its staff and students. I am also delighted to witness the University’s achievements in light of its 20th anniversary and its ongoing efforts to empower female staff members through civic participation and equal opportunities, fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where Bahraini women can thrive and are in alignment with the Supreme Council of Women’s vision.

The occasion served as a platform to recognise the invaluable contributions of the women affiliated with the University, who represent 64% of full-time personnel in the fields of academia, research, and thought leadership. This celebration is a stark reminder of the vital role of gender diversity in fostering scientific and academic progress and the inspiration for future generations of the role of women in science and education.

Professor Otoom expressed his gratitude, stating: "We extend our heartfelt thanks to Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa for honouring us with her presence. Her Excellency's dedication to fostering gender equality and breaking gender barriers in sports is an inspiration to us all. On the occasion of Bahraini Women’s Day, we extend our sincere appreciation to all women in Bahrain, with particular recognition for our dedicated female staff members who make significant contributions to the University’s success and the local communities." 

The celebrations featured a cake-cutting ceremony led by Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa and Professor Otoom, joined by the University's female academics, researchers and operational staff.

RCSI Medical University of Bahrain remains committed to promoting empowerment and equal opportunities for all staff members, attracting and retaining Bahraini talent and serving as a key driver of the University's mission to advance healthcare in Bahrain and beyond.