The Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY) signed a cooperation agreement with Bahrain Polytechnic last Sunday at the company headquarters in the Hidd, in the presence of the executive management of both parties, with the aim of inaugurating the apprenticeship program supported by the Labor Fund Tamkeen. This program aims to equip national cadres with in-demand skills for the job market by combining practical training in various mechanical and electrical fields. The program in turn, aims to enhance employment opportunities for the students and develop their career. 

The program is also distinguished by its focus on the practical aspect, as 30% of registered students’ time is allocated to academic education, while 70% of their time is allocated to on-the-job training, for a period of 3 years.

ASRY Acting CEO, Shaikh Mohamed bin Rashed Al Khalifa, commented, “ASRY is honored to participate in this partnership. Our extensive experience, high-quality work, and strong reputation in the regional maritime industry makes us a perfect fit for this program. Initiatives like this align perfectly with ASRY’s vision: to invest in young Bahrainis and develop their skills to become future leaders in the maritime and industrial sectors. By empowering these young minds, we contribute directly to a stronger national economy.”

On the other hand, Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, the CEO of Bahrain Polytechnic, affirmed that Bahrain Polytechnic, as a Bahraini government educational institution, is closely aligned with the esteemed government's vision for 2050, which aims to enrich educational outcomes and cultivate specialized and exceptional talents in the job market. Therefore, the Polytechnic believes in the role of training in the development and enhancement of human resources skills, contributing to the supply of capable and qualified personnel to fill positions in the labor market. He added that training is considered a strategic choice for entities aspiring to build a workforce capable of meeting the needs of work, developments, and rapid changes occurring in various fields.

Professor Ó Catháin pointed out that the professional apprenticeship programs launched by the Polytechnic enhance the principle of national partnership and unite joint efforts to invest in human capital, through the qualification and development of national cadres. This contributes to achieving the strategic goals of the Polytechnic within Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030.

Shaikh Duaij bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, ASRY General Manager of Support Services and Sr. Manager of the Human Resources Department, echoed this sentiment, stating that since its establishment, the company has consistently provided training opportunities for university students and graduates as part of its social responsibility, with the aim of refining their skills, expanding their capabilities, and qualifying them to enter the job market. He concluded by reaffirming that this program will provide an exceptional opportunity to twenty students, opening doors to a bright future after graduation.