The University of Tulsa and Bapco Energies have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on academic pathways as part of Bapco Energies’ NBH Future Energy Leaders Program, a strategic initiative designed to develop the next generation of energy professionals in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Through the partnership, UTulsa and Bapco Energies will work together to support scholarship students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees at UTulsa. The collaboration is focused on promoting academic excellence, developing future talent and advancing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s long-term workforce development priorities.
UTulsa has a long and distinguished history in energy education, research and innovation. In addition to its nationally recognized petroleum engineering program, the university offers strong academic programs in cybersecurity, applied artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, business and other disciplines that are increasingly important to the future of the global energy sector. The partnership will provide Bahraini students with opportunities to gain advanced knowledge, technical expertise and practical experience while preparing them to contribute to the continued evolution of the energy industry.
“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing the next generation of energy leaders who will drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the Kingdom of Bahrain and around the world,” said Andreas A. Polycarpou, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering & Computer Science. “The University of Tulsa is proud to partner with Bapco Energies in preparing talented Bahraini students to address complex global energy challenges through interdisciplinary education, research and experiential learning.
“Building on UTulsa’s longstanding strengths in energy, engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, business and related disciplines, we look forward to supporting these future leaders as they contribute to the continued transformation of Bahrain’s energy sector and advance the Kingdom’s long-term economic and workforce development goals.”
The NBH Future Energy Leaders – Scholarship and Career Development Program is a flagship initiative by Bapco Energies, the integrated energy company dedicated to powering the next generation and securing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s long-term energy supply. The program provides high-achieving Bahraini students with comprehensive educational support, including tuition and academic expenses, in fields critical to the Kingdom’s future economy.
Priority disciplines supported through the program include engineering and technical fields; business and commercial disciplines; information technology, data science and cybersecurity; sustainability, energy and environmental studies; and law, governance and public policy.
“Through strategic partnerships with government and industry, UTulsa has supported students from around the world who have gone on to play important roles in advancing their countries’ energy sectors and national priorities, and we are proud to bring that same commitment to our partnership with Bapco Energies and the Kingdom of Bahrain,” said Vivian Wang, Ph.D., vice provost for global engagement.
“Through the NBH Future Energy Leaders Program, we are creating meaningful academic and career development pathways for talented Bahrainis in disciplines that will shape the future of the energy sector. Our partnership with The University of Tulsa gives our students access to a strong academic environment with deep expertise in energy and other priority fields, while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the Kingdom’s future,” said Mark Thomas, group CEO of Bapco Energies.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to cultivating globally minded leaders capable of addressing the technological, economic and sustainability challenges shaping the future of energy. Through world-class education, research opportunities and industry engagement, UTulsa and Bapco Energies aim to develop a new generation of professionals who will contribute to the Kingdom of Bahrain’s continued growth and success in an evolving global energy landscape.