Parliament has thrown its weight behind a proposal to develop public libraries and establish a national knowledge bank, aiming to strengthen access to scientific research for students and academics across the kingdom.
The proposal, submitted by MP Dr Muneer Suroor, was unanimously recommended for approval by Parliament’s services committee.
It focuses on modernising public libraries, expanding their reach across all governorates and creating a centralised knowledge bank to give researchers and students quicker access to studies, theses and academic references.
“Education today is no longer limited to classrooms,” Dr Suroor said.
“A knowledge bank would place research, studies and academic resources within easy reach of students and researchers, helping them innovate, publish and compete regionally and internationally.”
He said the proposal reflects the spirit of Article Seven of the Constitution, which commits the state to promoting science, literature and research while guaranteeing educational and cultural services.
Dr Suroor added that enhancing library infrastructure is essential to nurturing a reading culture and supporting postgraduate research.
“Strong libraries are the backbone of serious academic work,” he said.
Services committee vice-chairman Abdulwahid Qarata said the committee welcomed the proposal while recognising the Education Ministry’s ongoing work in developing knowledge resource centres.
“The committee was encouraged by the ministry’s efforts, including digital catalogues, electronic borrowing services and access to academic theses,” Mr Qarata said.
“However, approving this proposal reinforces Parliament’s vision to institutionalise these services and expand them further in a structured and sustainable way.”
The Education Ministry said that eight knowledge resource centres are already operating across Bahrain, alongside school-based learning resource centres and a specialised educational documentation centre for graduate research. Digital tools such as online catalogues, QR access to electronic books and remote reservation services have also been introduced.
The committee concluded that the proposal supports Bahrain’s long-term educational strategy by encouraging self-learning, research excellence and cultural development.
It will be discussed by MPs during Parliament session on Tuesday.
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