The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) - Medical University of Bahrain reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and responsible citizenship during its annual Health & Sustainability Week, held from February 7–14.

The week brought together students, faculty and staff in a dynamic programme linking human health, environmental stewardship and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At its core, the initiative underscored a simple message: healthy people and a healthy planet are inseparable.

As part of its longstanding Green Campus initiative, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain continues to embed sustainability into daily operations and community engagement. The annual beach clean-up at Al Sayah remains a flagship example, addressing marine pollution and supporting SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Throughout Health & Sustainability week, the University held a range of activities promoting health and wellbeing, preventive healthcare and sustainable living. These included a blood donation drive, preventive health screenings, awareness campaigns on mental wellbeing, and the promotion of physical activity and healthy food choices. Each initiative is directly aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and reinforces the University’s role in shaping future healthcare leaders who understand the broader determinants of health, including lifestyle and climate.

A key academic highlight was the introduction of the book titled “Antibiotics and the Microbiome” by Dr Patrick Walsh, Senior Lecturer in Physiology, which aims at encouraging the University community to examine the responsible prescription and use of antibiotics through a sustainability lens and the impact on long-term global health resilience.

The week also advanced SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the creative and impactful “Thrift Trip Extraordinaire.” In partnership with the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA), students participated in a hands-on thrift shopping experience designed to promote conscious consumer behaviour. By choosing second-hand fashion, participants reduced textile waste, supported ethical consumption and contributed funds to a local charitable cause. The experience continued with an interactive upcycling workshop that highlighted how small lifestyle shifts can collectively reduce environmental impact.

Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, commented: “Our Health & Sustainability Week demonstrates how education, advocacy and action can intersect to drive meaningful change. By empowering students to understand the interconnectedness of health and climate, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain is nurturing socially responsible healthcare professionals equipped to lead in addressing global challenges in healthcare and beyond.”

The University extends its sincere appreciation to its student clubs, societies and departments whose collaboration made the week both impactful and inspiring. 

At RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, our community continues to demonstrate how responsible everyday choices can drive lasting impact, contributing to Bahrain Vision 2030’s goals of building a sustainable and socially responsible nation.