Bahraini Students Honoured with Endeavour Scholarship to Attend U.S. Space Camp, Marking a Step Forward for Bahrain’s STEM Aspirations

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: ashen@newsobahrain.com

The Bahrain International Airshow celebrated the announcement of four Bahraini students selected for the prestigious Endeavour Scholarship, an initiative that will see them join the renowned Space Camp in the United States next summer.

The announcement, a highlight of the airshow’s second day, underscores Bahrain’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of space and science leaders.

In his remarks, His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, commended the scholarship winners and reflected on the transformative impact of the program. “I am thrilled to share that the students selected for past space camps have greatly benefited from their experience,” he said. He noted how previous participants have gone on to pursue careers in STEM fields, embodying the program’s mission to inspire Bahraini youth in space and science. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah also extended his gratitude to the late astronaut Al Worden and the Endeavour Scholarship Foundation for their role in empowering Bahraini students, aligning with His Majesty the King’s vision for a future steeped in technological advancement and innovation.

Dr. Shaikh Abdullah also emphasized the importance of collaboration, praising the efforts of Bahrain’s National Space Agency (NSA) and the Ministry of Education in supporting the selection process. “Together, we are building the capacity of Bahraini youth within the fields of space and science,” he said, underscoring Bahrain’s dedication to STEM education and future leadership in aerospace.

Following the minister’s speech, U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Mr. Steven C. Bondy, praised the collaborative efforts between Bahrain and the United States, calling the Endeavour Scholarship announcement a personal highlight. “It’s a whole lot of fun to be around young people who are motivated by a STEM education and seeking to explore the mysteries of the universe,” he shared. Ambassador Bondy also noted the importance of space science, emphasizing how innovations in space technology have improved everyday life.

He referenced the Artemis Accords and the Comprehensive Security, Integration, and Prosperity Agreement (CIPA), formalizing the United States and Bahrain’s commitment to peaceful and cooperative space exploration. “Through educational programs like the Endeavour Scholarship, we are paving the way for enriching STEM experiences for students and innovations in research with broader social and economic benefits,” Bondy said, expressing his pride in witnessing Bahraini students embark on their journeys in space exploration.

The event also featured emotional testimonies from last year’s scholarship recipients, Hassan Abdulrahman Hashem and Maryam Al Awadhi. Reflecting on his Space Camp experience, Hassan described the program as life-changing, recounting the excitement of designing rockets and participating in simulations that tested his technical and teamwork skills. “I would not be the person who I am today if not for this wonderful trip,” he said, urging the new students to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Maryam, a fellow 2023 recipient, shared how Space Camp solidified her passion for aerospace, ultimately leading her to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering. She encouraged the newly selected students, “Put your all into every activity. Be an amazing team player. Every time you look back, you’ll be met with a wave of nostalgia and a longing to go back.” Her journey, from joining the Endeavour program to receiving a scholarship for her studies in the UAE, showcased the powerful influence of the scholarship.

As these four students prepare to embark on their journey to the U.S. Space Camp, their achievements reflect Bahrain’s dedication to fostering a culture of scientific curiosity and innovation, placing the Kingdom on the global map in STEM education. The event closed with congratulations to the students, who will join a legacy of Bahraini youth inspired to become leaders, innovators, and advocates for space exploration in the years to come.