The inaugural graduation ceremony at RCSI Bahrain took place today in Muharraq, Bahrain.

72 students from postgraduate and undergraduate courses were conferred under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

33 graduates of the School of Medicine, 32 nursing and seven masters graduates marked the successful completion of their studies at RCSI Bahrain at a ceremony in front of 800 guests, including parliamentarians, regional and overseas ambassadors, family and friends.

The valedictorian, Dr Ayman Bukannan spoke on behalf of the students. His inspiring address reflected on their time at RCSI Bahrain, the accomplishments of the classes of 2010 and beginning the next phase of their professional lives.

Speaking at the conferring ceremony, Ms Eilis McGovern, President of RCSI, said: “I wish to congratulate our first cohort of graduates. As the first cohort of students you were pioneers, exploring where nobody had gone before. You lacked the guidance of more senior students and therefore needed to be resourceful and brave. We are very much aware that you have placed your trust in us as the first class. We would like to think that we have been worthy of your trust. You have completed an arduous course of studies and examinations and are worthy of our admiration. We wish you all that you wish for yourselves in your professional and personal lives.”

General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Defence Affairs received the honorary degree of Doctor of Science for public service to the Kingdom of Bahrain and in recognition of the Bahrain Defence Force Royal Medical Services, support to the university.

The colourful procession saw Faculty and senior administration from four distinguished centres of learning: RCSI (Dublin), the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI), the National University of Ireland (NUI) and RCSI Bahrain.