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Marwa El Goul, Deputy Head of the Economics Department at *Youm7* and the newspaper’s reporter covering the petroleum and mineral resources sector, stated that Egyptian women are currently witnessing unprecedented levels of empowerment within the petroleum industry. She explained that women’s participation is no longer limited to supporting roles, but now extends to leadership and specialized technical positions, representing 35% of the sector’s total workforce.
Her remarks came during a seminar organized by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources on Tuesday evening under the title “Women Are Energy Leading the Future… Women and Labor Day,” in the presence of Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi and several sector leaders.
Production Strategy and Women’s Role
During her speech, El Goul explained that the constructive role played by women closely aligns with the ministry’s strategy to increase oil and gas production and attract foreign investment. She noted that female professionals have become active contributors to meeting local market needs and achieving the country’s development goals, supported by what she described as unprecedented backing from the political leadership and President Abdel Fattah El Sisi.
From “For Men Only” to Leadership Positions
El Goul also drew a comparison between today’s reality and earlier portrayals in Egyptian cinema, referring to the classic film *For Men Only*, which depicted the challenges women faced in the 1960s and their need to disguise themselves in order to work in oil fields.
She stated that women today no longer need to hide to prove their capabilities, as they now work alongside men on offshore and onshore platforms, as well as at drilling and production sites, while also holding leadership positions that contribute to decision-making and shaping the future of Egypt’s energy sector.
Empowerment Based on Competence
El Goul praised Minister Karim Badawi’s approach in implementing presidential directives through increased reliance on qualified women, continuous training programs, and providing equal opportunities. She noted that these efforts have resulted in distinguished female models contributing significantly to the petroleum sector through their work and dedication.
She added that the current 35% participation rate is expected to increase further amid continued support and recognition of successful women within the sector.
