Sharjah, United Arab Emirates – Sharjah hosted the launch of the sixth edition of the Women in Technology Forum. Organized by the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SPARK), the forum was held under the patronage and attendance of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Park. A group of female leaders, technology experts, and entrepreneurs from around the world participated in the event.
Speech by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi
In her opening remarks, Her Highness Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi emphasized that women have been and continue to be a fundamental pillar in developing societies. She emphasized the importance of enhancing their presence in the fields of research, science, and advanced technologies. She stated that combining women’s capabilities in strategic thinking and risk management with the potential of modern technology will contribute to building a more sustainable and innovative future. This will enhance the quality of life for future generations.
Forum program and topics
This year’s forum was held under the theme “Future Lifestyles.” It featured keynote and panel discussions and workshops. These addressed diverse topics such as health and well-being technologies, longevity-enhancing technologies, artificial intelligence and robotics, sustainability, and smart lifestyles. It also included a special session for CEOs to discuss policies supporting women’s empowerment in innovation sectors. A youth session organized by the Sharjah Youth Council provided an opportunity for new generations to present their visions and aspirations.
Ahoud Al-Rumi’s word
For her part, Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future, emphasized during her participation in the forum that technology is a pivotal tool for achieving sustainable development. It also improves the quality of life. She emphasized that the role of governments goes beyond simply adopting smart systems to harnessing them to serve communities. She also commended the leadership vision of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, which has made the forum an inspiring platform for women in the region and the world.
Prominent figures and international participants
The forum featured a number of distinguished speakers from within and outside the UAE. These included Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Dr. Maryam Matar, Founder of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association, media personality Lojain Omran, and Andrea Brazakova, Executive Vice President of Mastercard. International experts and entrepreneurs also offered global insights on enhancing women’s presence in the fields of technology and innovation.
Commenting on the event, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, Executive Director of the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTI Park), explained that the forum has become a dynamic global platform for empowering women in the science and technology sectors. He emphasized that women’s participation is a fundamental pillar for building sustainable knowledge economies. He added that the park is keen to create exceptional opportunities for women innovators and entrepreneurs. They aim to contribute effectively to shaping the future of innovation.
