Alba, one of the world’s largest aluminium smelters, and Bahrain Polytechnic, a leading institution of applied higher education in Bahrain, marked the near completion of a unique top-up in the bachelor in mechanical engineering programme.

This flexible programme enables diploma holders (or equivalent qualifications) to upgrade their diploma to a degree in two years while accommodating their schedules. This collaborative effort empowered 24 national employees at Alba to significantly enhance their knowledge and skillset, fostering a future generation of industry experts.

A ceremony was held yesterday at Alba’s Oasis Hall to recognise the significant progress made by these dedicated employees enrolled in the programme launched in May 2022 at Bahrain Polytechnic.

The ceremony featured inspiring speeches by Alba’s chief executive Ali Al Baqali and Bahrain Polytechnic’s chief executive Prof Ciarán Ó Catháin.

In addition to senior Alba officials, the ceremony was also attended by several officials from Bahrain Polytechnic including dean of engineering, design and ICT Prof Christina Georgantopoulou.

As of the end of 2023, Alba had supported a total of 96 employees in their academic pursuits, sponsoring enrolments in various diploma, bachelor’s, MBA, and even PhD programmes at prestigious local and international universities.