BAHRAIN University students can enter a design competition that could change the future of the country's housing situation, it was declared yesterday.

The competition, which has been launched by real estate and infrastructure development company Naseej, aims to make home ownership an affordable reality for thousands of Bahraini citizens.

It is open to university students studying architecture and civil engineering as well as Committee for Organising Engineering Professional Practice (COEPP) Grade A or B registered architectural firms based in Bahrain with regional experience.

Eligible entrants are invited to present design concepts for an affordable, high-quality and environmentally-friendly home that should meet the aspirations and budgets of middle-income Bahraini nationals.

Reimbursed

The winning architectural firm will be the nominated subcontractor in a design-build contract for Naseej's first affordable housing project in Bahrain and will have their expenses reimbursed to the value of BD5,000.

The winning student will be given the opportunity to work with the selected firm of architects and will receive BD500 to cover associated expenses.

A panel consisting of Naseej chief executive officer Christopher Sims, Davis Langdon representative Paul Bonner and Bahrain Society of Engineers vice-president Jawad Al Jabal will judge all entries.

Final submission date for entries is February 15, and winners will be announced on February 22 at an award ceremony. For competition terms and conditions contact 17584620, e-mail yousif.alshaikh@naseejproperties.com or visit www.naseejproperties.com.