Mohanad

Gulf University is putting the final touches in preparation for launching the second edition of Sustainability Week 2025, which will begin on Sunday, November 16, and continue until Thursday, November 20. The event will feature the participation of academic figures, experts, and speakers from GCC countries, as well as from Arab and international institutions, in addition to extensive attendance from students and individuals interested in environmental and developmental work. The event will be held at The Art Hotel in the Amwaj area. 

A strong emphasis has been placed on student engagement by training specialized student teams in media, documentation, and technical fields, ensuring they are fully prepared to contribute effectively to the event. At the same time, university teams have been working for weeks on developing a comprehensive and integrated program for Sustainability Week, reflecting the institution’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, impactful edition of this annual event. 

University President, Prof. Muhannad Al- Firas, confirmed that the university has finalized most of the arrangements for the opening ceremony and conference sessions, noting that this edition will feature a noticeable expansion in programs, scientific content, and institutional and student participation. 

Prof. Al- Firas stated, “University teams have been working for weeks on preparing a comprehensive program for the launch of Sustainability Week, including an opening ceremony that reflects the university’s vision and mission in promoting a culture of sustainability, along with an extensive visual presentation of our goals and initiatives, and the announcement of several major projects that will officially launch during this event.” 

He clarified that the week will witness the inauguration of the 2025 International Sustainability Conference on its first day, with scientific sessions beginning immediately after the official opening. 

He added that this year’s conference will host a distinguished group of experts in circular economy, green digital transformation, resource management, sustainable education, and other related topics, emphasizing that this diversity aligns with the university’s vision of providing a comprehensive scientific platform that serves researchers, decision-makers, and students alike. 

The University President explained that conference sessions are structured to include research papers, applied studies, technical presentations, and panel discussions featuring specialists from academic institutions, government bodies, and private-sector companies from within Bahrain and abroad. The goal is to enhance the exchange of expertise and build long-term partnerships in sustainability fields. 

Regarding the role of students in organization, Al- Firas said, “We consider student participation a key pillar in the success of Sustainability Week, and therefore we have engaged them in all preparation stages—from logistical organization to managing interactive workshops, and participating in scientific sessions and the accompanying exhibition.” 

He added that the university ensured the training of specialized student teams in media, documentation, and technical skills, offering them a real opportunity to gain hands-on experience that enhances their academic and professional competencies. 

Regarding the accompanying exhibition, Prof. Al- Firas confirmed that it will be one of the week’s main highlights, featuring booths for government entities, civil society organizations, and private-sector companies, in addition to innovative student projects selected based on quality and scientific impact. 

He stated, “This year’s exhibition will be an interactive space that allows visitors to explore innovative clean-energy technologies and environmental solutions, as well as research initiatives and student projects that offer new perspectives on advancing sustainability.” 

He added that the university has developed an integrated logistical plan that includes preparing halls according to eco-friendly standards, providing energy-saving lighting systems, waste-sorting stations, and awareness pathways to guide visitors. 

“We are committed to ensuring that the university’s facilities reflect the sustainability values we promote,” he said, noting that several infrastructure enhancements were made in preparation for this event, making the experience a practical and inspiring model for students and visitors. 

Prof. Al- Firas concluded by saying, “Sustainability Week 2025 represents an important milestone in Gulf University’s journey, and we look forward to this edition contributing to expanding environmental awareness, launching institutional initiatives, and introducing research projects whose impact will extend beyond the event—strengthening the university’s role in serving national and regional development.”