Partnership with UNIDO Expands Students’ Horizons in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Manama, Bahrain – Gulf University has launched its Entrepreneurship Week, running from Sunday, April 13 to Thursday, April 17, 2025, organized by the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at the College of Administrative and Financial Sciences, in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO – ITPO Bahrain).
Held under the theme “Empowering Ideas, Inspiring Leaders, Driving Change”, the week aims to bridge academic knowledge with practical application by offering a platform for students to present their entrepreneurial ideas and turn them into real, impactful projects that contribute to the national economy.
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from government and private sectors, local entrepreneurs, successful alumni, and international organizations—highlighting the university’s commitment to building an active and supportive entrepreneurial environment.
In her speech, Professor Mona bint Rashid Al-Zayani, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and Board of Directors of Gulf University, emphasized the strategic value of the event, stating: “We are not just celebrating entrepreneurial ideas; we are promoting a culture of innovation and change as a way of life. Our mission is to build a generation that believes in its potential, develops creative solutions to challenges, and leads a future rooted in sustainability and progress. Universities must be engines of ideas, not just institutions that award degrees.”
Professor Mohanad Al-Faras, President of Gulf University, highlighted the role of entrepreneurship in shaping the knowledge economy: “Our goal is to equip students with the confidence and tools to lead and make a difference. We continuously support initiatives that enhance their skills and encourage them to bring their ideas to life.”
Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of the UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office, spoke about the importance of partnering with Gulf University, saying:
“Gulf University is a strong example of an academic institution that integrates entrepreneurship into its educational framework. Through its cooperation with government bodies and financial
institutions, it creates a comprehensive environment that supports young entrepreneurs. It is crucial that we replicate this experience by including entrepreneurship in educational curricula and training educators to deliver it effectively from early stages.”
Dr. Mahmoud Al-Zaghoul, Dean of the College of Administrative and Financial Sciences, stated that this week reflects the college’s vision of aligning academic content with real-world demands: “Our objective is not just to graduate students, but to prepare them to build meaningful ventures. This week gives them the space to experiment, engage with real challenges, and take initiative.”
Activities during the week include a student project exhibition, interactive competitions like a “Shark Tank” simulation, workshops on leadership and decision-making, and a Women’s Entrepreneurship Day in collaboration with the Supreme Council for Women. The week will conclude on Thursday with a ceremony honoring outstanding projects and supporting organizations.
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