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Featured Country: Bahrain
Cultural, historical and geographical as well as disability and exchange related information about the ancient island Kingdom of Bahrain - Pearl of the Persian Gulf.
About Bahrain
An island nation in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain has a long history dating back to the time of the Babylonians, Assyrians and Persians. Sweeping desert-scapes, ancient fortresses and azure blue seas exist in vivid contrast to the very cosmopolitan and modern cities of Bahrain - especially the capital, Manama. The best of both old and new can be found in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
In a historically important location in the Persian Gulf just east of Saudi Arabia, north of Qatar and the UAE and across the gulf to the south of Iran, Bahrain is the world's smallest Arab nation - roughly 3.5 times the size of Washington D.C. Bahrain is mostly low-lying, arid desert and enjoys mild winters and very hot summers.
Bahrain is considered to be a fairly relaxed and country by regional standards with women and non-Muslims taking an active role in political and social life. For these reasons along with the fact that Bahrainis tend to be very friendly and welcoming, it has been suggested that Bahrain may be the perfect introduction into the Arab world for those not familiar with or accustomed to the region.
Disability Laws and Accessibility
The rights of people with disabilities in Bahrain are protected by law and a variety of governmental, quasi-governmental, and religious institutions are mandated to support people with disabilities. However, society tends to view people with disabilities as special cases in need of protection rather than as fully functioning members of society. The government offers training for people with disabilities who would like to work and encourages businesses to hire people with disabilities.
Housing regulations in Bahrain require that access be provided to disabled persons and greater emphasis has been given in recent years to public building design that incorporates access for people with disabilities; however, the law does not mandate such access so access to the built environment is likely to be inconsistent.
The public transport system in Bahrain may have limited access for people with mobility and other disabilities. Most people, disabled or not, typically drive their personal cars or take taxis, so getting around may be a bit more of a challenge than one is used to at home – all part of the journey!
Many tourist sites in Bahrain are accessible for people with disabilities including the Qal’at al-Bahrain archaeological site which was just recently added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites.
With the right attitude, an open mind and a sense of adventure, Bahrain can be an extremely rewarding destination.
Disability Organizations
Disability organizations working in Bahrain can be an invaluable resource before, during and even after your exchange experience. Below is a limited list of organizations working in the country. For a more comprehensive list see the Muslim World Initiative page of disability organizations or MIUSA's on-line, searchable database of disability organizations in Bahrain.
Exchange Programs
Learn Arabic in Al-Riffa, study archaeology at a World Heritage site, volunteer in a rural village, or teach English in Manama! A multitude of opportunities are available in Bahrain.
Search the database of exchange programs. Check them out and start your adventure in the 'Pearl of the Persian Gulf' today!
Language Schools / Programs
Immerse yourself not only in the language, but the culture, history and daily life of this Arab archipeligo nestled in the blue waters of the Persian Gulf.
There is no better way to learn a language than to live where it is spoken every day!
Courses currently offered in Bahrain are limited compared to other parts of the Middle East, but there are opportunities and with Bahrain being in such close proximity to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, opportunities to learn Arabic in the region are actually quite abundant.
National Security Education Program - David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarships
LanguageLearning.net has a list of five schools in Bahrain that currently teach Arabic language
Private teacher or tutor in Bahrain.
Language Guide - get a head start on Arabic, and many other languages!
For more information on learning Arabic in the Middle East visit NCDE's Languages of the Muslim World page.
Scholarships, Fellowships and Internships
The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the United States Department of State sponsors several scholarship, fellowship and internship programs available to university students, scholars and professionals from Bahrain and the United States. Contact the ECA to find out more about programs offered.
The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is committed to ensuring that all of its activities reflect the full diversity of American society and culture. The ECA seeks and encourages the involvement of both Americans and foreign citizens in its programs from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, racial and ethnic minorities and people with disabilities.
People with disabilities are encouraged to apply!
http://exchanges.state.gov/education
Links
Disability Access in the Bahraini Public School System
Although efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, MIUSA/NCDE cannot be held liable for inaccuracy,misinterpretation or complaints arising from these listings. Mention of an organization, company, service or resource should not be construed as an endorsement by MIUSA/NCDE. Please advise NCDE of any inaccuracies you may find.
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