News
The 2024 International Day of Girls and Women in Science in Qatar
Qatar University (QU) in partnership with the UNESCO Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen, Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science and Sasol, organized the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 under the theme “Transition towards Innovation Economy: The Role of Women Entrepreneurs in STEM” on February 12th, 2024.
The event included a panel discussion led by prominent women scientists and researchers as well as other stakeholders discussed the breaking barriers in STEM entrepreneurship, navigating the innovation landscape from global to national and regional trends, and building an enabling ecosystem.
Professor Mariam Al-Maadeed, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies said in her opening speech, “Qatar University celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science every year. This celebration is an opportunity to showcase the inspiring achievements of women and girls and to enhance their participation in national and regional development, keeping pace with the rapid global transformation towards a knowledge-based economy focused on research and innovation.”
She adds, “Qatar University has incorporated a culture of research and innovation into its strategic plans and in the practices of its students and researchers. The university has accomplished numerous activities, initiatives, and theoretical and practical programs that have bridged cooperation, exchanged expertise, and contributed to transforming modern technology and scientific innovations into sustainable, executable projects.”
Sheikha Aisha Bint Mubarak Al Thani, Head of the UNESCO Department, Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science said, ““The hopes and future of this country rests upon the students. They must exert effort and utilize the resources provided by the state, including universities and colleges with scientific capabilities, to develop their capacities and skills to join fields that qualify them to lead in the development of this country and elevate it.”
She emphasized that Qatar places significant emphasis and support to enhance the position of Qatari women in the field of science and scientific research, allocating awards for outstanding research projects by female students, organizing and hosting numerous leading international and local conferences to promote scientific culture among girls, in line with achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030.
On 9 February 2024, UNESCO launched the Call for Action “Closing the Gender Gap in Science”. This call includes recommendations towards an inclusive society in which women are not deterred from entering science or held back in their progress. Even minor changes at the societal level, such as increasing the visibility of female role models, can yield substantial differences.
Qatar University's commitment to elevating the profile of women scientists and inspiring new generations reflects the State of Qatar's dedication towards ensuring equal participation of men and women in achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Sasol Middle East and India Country Manager, Dr. Pat Skhonde said, “Initiatives led by industry, such as the Sasol STEM focused initiatives, can play an important role in our ability to encourage more women and girls to take on Science, Technology and Engineering roles. However, industry alone will not address the gender gap; this can only be achieved through collaboration and coordination between all stakeholders. Industry, academia, governments, and communities must continue to work together to ensure that women and girls are exposed to STEM fundamentals and know-how that can translate into the careers of the future.”
The primary objective of the panel discussion is to highlight and discuss the crucial role of women entrepreneurs in fostering innovation and shaping the future of the global economy within the context of STEAM fields. By examining their experiences, achievements, and challenges, the discussion aims to inspire the next generation of women and girls in science.
Celebrated internationally since the resolution of the UN General Assembly in December 2015, and placed under the responsibility of UNESCO and UN Women, International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women scientists, while encouraging new generations of girls to face new scientific challenges.
