Bahrain Study Finds Curriculum Design Key to Student Competency and Employability

Manama, Bahrain – As universities worldwide adapt to fast-changing job markets, a new study from Gulf University, Bahrain highlights the pivotal role of curriculum design in shaping student competencies and career readiness. The research, conducted by Dr. Rumpa Roy and Dr. Hesham El Marsafawy, reveals that carefully structured curricula not only improve academic performance but also foster critical skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Published in the International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research (May 2023), the study evaluates how curriculum elements influence the competencies of undergraduate students at Gulf University. The findings emphasize that competency-based education is essential for preparing graduates to thrive in both local and international workplaces.

Why Competencies Matter

Employers today demand more than technical knowledge—they seek graduates who can collaborate, adapt, and lead. Universities, therefore, are under increasing pressure to design curricula that go beyond theory and integrate practical, soft, and transferable skills.

“Competency-based education is about ensuring students don’t just earn degrees but develop the skills and attitudes required for real-world success,” Dr. Roy explained.

The study argues that higher education in Bahrain must align with global trends, where curricula are increasingly outcome-based, student-centered, and industry-linked.

The Study: Voices from Students

The researchers used surveys and focus group discussions with undergraduate students to examine how curriculum components shape competencies.

Key findings include:

• Positive student feedback: Most respondents felt their courses improved critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork.
• Soft skills development: Activities like group projects, presentations, and community-based assignments helped students practice communication and collaboration.
• Curriculum relevance: Students appreciated when course content was tied to industry needs and real-world problems.
• Challenges: Some students reported gaps in career guidance, digital literacy, and exposure to global practices.

Competencies Identified in the Curriculum

Roy and El Marsafawy identified several core competencies enhanced by Gulf University’s curriculum:

1. Cognitive skills – critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
2. Communication – effective speaking, writing, and digital interaction.
3. Teamwork – collaboration across disciplines and cultures.
4. Leadership – decision-making, conflict resolution, and responsibility.
5. Ethics and civic values – integrity, resilience, and community engagement.
6. Career readiness – professional skills aligned with labor market expectations.

These competencies mirror international standards, making graduates more competitive in global job markets.

Challenges in Curriculum Implementation

While the findings were largely positive, the study highlights challenges that universities in Bahrain—and elsewhere—must address:

• Balancing theory and practice: Some programs still emphasize exams over applied learning.
• Digital integration: Post-COVID, students stressed the need for stronger e-learning tools and digital literacy.
• Limited career counseling: Students expressed a need for better career guidance and internship opportunities.
• Assessment methods: Traditional grading may not fully capture competencies like creativity and leadership.

One student noted: “We learn a lot in theory, but sometimes we need more chances to practice skills before we graduate.”

Towards a Competency-Based Curriculum Framework

The study proposes a framework for competency-driven curriculum design in higher education:

• Outcome-based learning – define clear skills and attitudes students must achieve.
• Integrated teaching methods – use projects, internships, and case studies to connect theory with practice.
• Continuous feedback – involve students in evaluating how well curricula support competency growth.
• Industry collaboration – co-design courses with employers to ensure alignment with job market needs.
• Global exposure – include opportunities for cultural exchange, international projects, and digital collaboration.

Implications for Higher Education in Bahrain

The findings come at a crucial time for Bahrain, which is pushing to diversify its economy and prepare a workforce for Industry 5.0 and beyond. By focusing on competencies, Gulf University and other institutions can ensure their graduates are not only employable but also adaptable to emerging global challenges.

Dr. El Marsafawy emphasized: “Curriculum is the backbone of higher education. When designed well, it empowers students to succeed academically, professionally, and socially.”

The study also calls on policymakers and accrediting bodies to support competency-driven approaches, ensuring that higher education in Bahrain keeps pace with global reforms.

Conclusion: From Curriculum to Competence

The Gulf University research confirms that curriculum design is more than an academic exercise—it is a strategic tool for building future-ready graduates. When aligned with student needs, industry expectations, and international standards, curricula can foster both employability and holistic development.

As Bahrain continues to invest in higher education, competency-driven curriculum frameworks may prove vital for shaping not only graduates but also the nation’s social and economic future.