Research indicates that integrating women into the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is essential for enhancing the quality of discoveries and broadening the range of solutions. Teams that include both men and women generate more diverse and expansive ideas, elevate scientific ethics, and provide young girls with inspiring role models that encourage them to pursue new scientific paths. The World Economic Forum estimates that doubling women’s participation in the tech workforce could contribute approximately 600 billion euros to the global economy by 2027.
Women’s Experiences in Science Labs
In this scientific landscape, the Namah Foundation continues its efforts to elevate women’s roles by focusing on these sectors as vital for community contribution. The foundation organized a series of discussions titled “Namah Dialogues,” featuring engineers and experts who shared practical experiences to help young women understand the available opportunities in the job market. One session, titled “Women in Technical and Engineering Disciplines (STEM): Be Part of the Change,” brought together field leaders in collaboration with the University of Sharjah to discuss the current state of these disciplines, the professional challenges, and the paths women can confidently pursue.
In 2023, the foundation launched the “Jawaher Grant for Academic Advancement of Women,” offering scholarships and research grants for women in areas such as technology, health, and social sciences. These grants have supported female researchers at both local and international universities.
A Comprehensive System with Women’s Involvement
On an international scale, Namah is expanding its impact through strategic partnerships aimed at opening markets and opportunities for female entrepreneurs. In collaboration with UN Women, the foundation has contributed to the implementation of gender-responsive procurement programs that have enabled over 340,000 women worldwide to access markets more equitably, especially in technological fields and supply chains.
In this context, Namah plays an advanced role as a knowledge partner in institutional initiatives aimed at addressing structural gaps in the labor market. The foundation participates as a knowledge partner in the “Challenge” program led by Emirates Global Aluminium, which brings together seven major industrial companies to promote gender equality in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
Through its efforts to enhance inclusion and diversity in vital economic sectors, Namah has released a report titled “Enhancing Diversity in the Heavy Industries Sector,” which outlines a practical framework for supporting women’s participation in one of the most challenging sectors in terms of female representation. The report presents an integrated institutional model focused on policies, leadership, organizational culture, capacity building, and workplace environment, emphasizing the role of the private sector in adopting sustainable practices that promote equal opportunities, improve the retention of female talents, and increase the competitiveness of companies, aligning with the needs of comprehensive economic development.
These integrated efforts aim to create a practical model for women’s engagement in STEM fields, contributing to the construction of a complete system that supports women from their educational pursuits to careers in laboratories and companies.