The MENA region is experiencing remarkable growth, with a noticeable shift towards greater female participation in the STEM field. This paves the way for future generations of Arab women and opens doors for opportunities. According to UNESCO, 57% of STEM graduates in the MENA region are women, in the UAE it rises to 61%.
In Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 aims to create 1 million jobs for women, reflecting a commitment to enhance female employment opportunities. In 2020, female labour force participation in Saudi Arabia surged from 25.9% in Q1 to 31.4% in Q2. There has also been a notable decrease in female unemployment in KSA over the past few years.
However, despite progress challenges remain in the STEM industry. It is important to raise awareness and address unconscious bias to ensure equal opportunities for all. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we reflect on the status of women in science within the MENA region.
Here are some challenges they face:
- Unconscious bias in STEM industry and education:
There exists a need to address unconscious bias prevalent in both industry and education. Despite good intentions, many individuals may unknowingly harbour biases that affect decision-making processes, leading to inequalities.
- Transferring STEM knowledge into the workforce:
Despite a high percentage of women graduating in STEM subjects in the MENA region, there is a challenge in effectively transferring this knowledge and talent into the workforce. This gap hinders female STEM graduates from fully participating in various industries.
- Gendered hiring practices
Some companies still hire women solely based on their gender to diversify their workforce without considering qualifications. This overlooks the value and capabilities women bring to the table, undermining their professional growth.
Supporting MENA women in STEM
- Overcoming Stereotypes and Cultural Barriers:
Despite progress, MENA women often face stereotypes and cultural barriers that hinders their involvement in STEM fields. However, as more women demonstrate their proficiency in STEM, societal perceptions are gradually shifting. By challenging stereotypes and overcoming barriers, these women serve as inspirations for future generations.
- Addressing Societal Challenges:
MENA women in STEM possess a unique opportunity to tackle societal challenges through their expertise. Their fresh insights and perspectives enable them to contribute significantly to finding solutions to regional challenges. Through active participation, they are positively impacting their communities and societies.
- Advocacy for Gender Diversity:
Women in STEM in the Middle East go beyond their careers; they actively advocate for gender diversity. They engage in various initiatives to promote gender equality and strive to establish inclusive work environments. Through their advocacy, they seek to inspire more women to pursue engineering while combatting gender-based biases and discrimination.
- Increased Educational Opportunities:
The significant improvement in access to education has resulted in more women pursuing higher education. Universities and technical institutions actively promote gender inclusivity in STEM fields, providing women in STEM with the knowledge and skills required to thrive.
Role models in the MENA region
Role models and mentors who have excelled in the field offer invaluable support and guidance to women as they navigate their engineering careers. Here are some inspiring women in the Middle East who are breaking stereotypes and making significant strides in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
- Samia Al-Amoudi - Saudi Arabia:
Dr. Samia Al-Amoudi is a trailblazer in breast cancer research in KSA. In addition to her role as a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist, she leads the Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi Centre of Excellence in breast cancer. Dr Al-Amoudi, who battled breast cancer herself, has extensively documented her experiences in the Al Madinah newspaper and has appeared on a daily TV show. She was ranked fifth on the Power 100 list of the world's most influential Arabs in both 2010 and 2012.
- Sara Al Amiri- United Arab Emirates
Sarah Bint Yousef Al Amiri is currently the Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology. She also chairs the Board of Directors of the Emirates Schools Establishment. Additionally, Al Amiri is the chair of the UAE Space Agency and the United Arab Emirates Council of Scientists. She also holds the role of Deputy Project Manager of the Emirates Mars Mission.
- Sara Sabry- Egypt
Sara Sabry is an Egyptian-Lebanese astronaut, engineer, and entrepreneur. She is the founder and CEO of the Deep Space Initiative and became the first Arab woman to travel into space.
She is an international keynote speaker, sharing her insights on entrepreneurship, space exploration, tech and overcoming personal challenges
- Dr. Nura Adam Mohamed
Dr. Nura is a Research Associate at Qatar University's Biomedical Research Center and an Honourary Research Associate at Imperial College London. She earned her BSc in Biomedical Science from Qatar University and her master's and PhD from Imperial College London.
Dr. Nura was awarded for her research on developing new ways to prevent diabetes and heart diseases.
Conclusion:
The rising number of women in STEM in the Middle East showcases their determination, resilience, and dedication to their passions. By breaking barriers, serving as role models, and promoting gender equality, MENA women in STEM are making a notable impact and inspiring future generations to pursue fulfilling careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics while also fueling innovation and advancing progress. With ongoing support and encouragement, the Middle East will continue to make strides towards a more diverse and inclusive STEM industry.