Bahrain's Ministry of Works has signed an agreement with Project Management Institute (PMI) in bid to help develop project management methodologies within the Ministry and boost the capabilities of its personnel, reported BNA.

The MoU comes within the framework of the ministry’s efforts to implement its strategic plans aimed at developing national infrastructure and promoting innovation in line with the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

This partnership with the PMI reflects the Ministry’s keenness to continue adopting the best international practices to ensure the implementation of high-quality projects that meet citizens’ aspirations and enhance the efficiency of infrastructure, remarked Ibrahim bin Hassan Al Hawaj, Minister of Works, after signing the agreement with Hanny Al Shazly, Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at PMI.

He said that the deal represents co-operation between the ministry and PMI aimed at boosting professional performance in project management and achieving optimal results in the implementation of infrastructure and strategic building projects, while supporting Bahrain’s comprehensive development.

Lauding the ministry's support, Al Shazly said the Institute remained committed to supporting Bahrain’s efforts in developing and enabling national cadres to manage projects according to the highest international standards, thereby enhancing the kingdom’s competitiveness regionally and globally.

"The MoU aims to develop project management methodologies within the Ministry and enhance the capabilities of its personnel by benefiting from the best global practices, through knowledge transfer, experience exchange, and professional participation in international forums," stated the top official.

Also those who complete the training programmes will be given professional certifications by the Institute, such as the Construction Project Management (PMI-CP) programme and the Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate.

The MoU will also contribute to applying the Institute’s content to improve current practices in the Ministry’s projects. 

Commending the PMI for its programmes, Al Hawaj said the number of Ministry project managers holding the PMP certification has now risen to  65. 

The Ministry of Works has also implemented two PMI-CP programme courses this year for the first time in Bahrain, in cooperation with the Institute, he added.