Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Ayman Ashour, emphasized that empowering women is a key pillar of the national strategy for sustainable development. He highlighted that increasing women’s participation in science fosters an inclusive and innovative research environment. The Ministry is working with both local and international partners to ensure women have access to resources and opportunities to thrive in scientific fields.
On the occasion of the International Day for Women and Girls in Science, the Science, Technology, and Innovation Funding Agency (STDF), in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in Egypt, organized a special event to celebrate women’s contributions to science and technology. The event focused on the challenges and opportunities women face in Egypt’s scientific landscape.
Michele Quaroni, the Italian Ambassador to Egypt, expressed his pride in organizing the event, emphasizing that supporting women in science is a collective responsibility. He reiterated Italy’s commitment to strengthening scientific cooperation with Egypt, particularly in the fields of engineering, technology, renewable energy, agriculture, and natural heritage. Ambassador Quaroni also underlined the importance of increasing women’s participation in science, especially in fields like engineering and mathematics. He acknowledged the difficulties women face in balancing family responsibilities with scientific careers and reaffirmed Italy’s dedication to helping them achieve this balance. The Ambassador concluded by expressing hopes that the event would lead to fruitful discussions and open new avenues for collaboration to enhance women’s roles in the scientific community.
Dr. Walaa Shata, CEO of the STDF, reiterated the agency’s commitment to supporting female researchers, noting their significant contributions to scientific progress across various fields. He emphasized that the agency provides more than just financial support, offering capacity-building programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help female researchers thrive. Dr. Shata explained that the agency is focused on creating an environment where female researchers can break through barriers and fully realize their potential, thus driving forward Egypt’s scientific development.
The event attracted a distinguished group of scientists, academics, and decision-makers from both Egypt and Italy. The program featured opening remarks from key figures, followed by sessions where prominent female scientists shared their experiences. A roundtable discussion also addressed challenges and solutions to enhancing women’s participation in science and technology, with contributions from experts like Huda Saad Abu Rmeila from the University of Pisa and Heba Jaber, Science Advisor to the European Union Delegation.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to supporting women in science and a call for all academic, research institutions, government bodies, and industrial organizations to implement policies that promote equal opportunities and empower women to reach their scientific potential.
This annual event underscores the importance of international and local collaboration in fostering an inclusive scientific environment that allows women to contribute to building a more sustainable and innovative future.
