AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation Concludes Second Edition of Watheq

AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation (MKF) has successfully concluded the second edition of its Watheq university preparatory program, held under the patronage of H.E. Sara Ahmed Buhij, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). Running across July and August 2025, the program brought together more than 60 high school students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to transition confidently into university life.

This year’s edition of Watheq was made possible through the support of the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) and in collaboration with leading entities including the BTEA, and educational institutions such as the University of Bahrain (UOB), Bahrain Teachers College (BTC), Euro University of Bahrain (EUB), the American University of Bahrain (AUB), and University of Strathclyde Bahrain. 

The program also benefited from the backing of various prominent private and philanthropic organization such as Beyon, Gulf Petrochemical Industries Co. (BSC), the Rashid Alzayani Foundation, the Al Kooheji Charitable Foundation, Education Zone Bahrain, and Qalam Design Studio, alongside the valued expertise of Dr. Bedoor Sami Al Omran, Consultant Neuroradiologist at the Bahrain Defense Force (BDF) Hospital.

Targeting students aged 16–18, Watheq was designed to strengthen both academic readiness and personal development as they embark on their university education. The program featured an extensive lineup of interactive workshops covering self-development, motivation, university majors, and career exploration. Participants also engaged in practical projects, field visits, motivational seminars, documentary screenings, recreational activities, and the signature Treasure Hunt Competition. All graduates received accredited certificates upon program completion.

On the occasion, H.H. Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees at MKF, expressed her delight with the program’s outcomes. She affirmed the Foundation’s determination to continue tirelessly in its efforts to forge meaningful partnerships and launch initiatives that will empower the younger generation to actively serve their communities and the nation. Her Highness also praised the pivotal support of partners such as NBB and appreciated the generous support of H.E. Sara Ahmed Buhij, the CEO of BTEA.

Usman Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of NBB added, “We view it as a core responsibility to support programs that prepare youth to excel academically and enter the workforce with clarity and purpose. Our sponsorship of Watheq demonstrates our organisational commitment to helping build human capital which will sustain the Kingdom’s long-term growth and competitiveness. We look forward to seeing these students grow into capable and driven contributors to Bahrain’s progress in the years to come.”

For more information about the Watheq program or other youth initiatives by MKF, please call +973 17499909, email [email protected], visit www.mkfbh.org , or follow the Foundation’s official social media channels.