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University students in Bahrain could obtain dual degrees from British institutions under a new initiative, according to local media.

Manama’s Applied Science University (ASU) has teamed up with London’s South Bank University and Cardiff Metropolitan University to offer courses in Bahrain, its president told Gulf Daily News.

Professor Ghassan Aouad said the programme was aimed at establishing Bahrain as an “education hub” in the region.

“There is a big market for higher education in the UK,” he was quoted as saying.

Under the scheme, ASU would set up a new college of engineering in partnership with South Bank University, offering courses in civil engineering, construction, architectural design and mechanical and electrical engineering. Those courses would be accredited by the London-based institution – some of whose professors would relocate to teach out of Bahrain.

ASU would also offer two Cardiff University-accredited courses, in management and business studies, and banking and finance.

There would be the potential for student as well as professor exchanges under the scheme.

ASU intends to launch the programme next academic year subject to final approval from Bahrain’s Higher Education Council, the newspaper said.