Establishment of a National Working Group to Boost Women’s Role in Science and Technology

A virtual ceremony was held yesterday to inaugurate National Working Group aiming to boost women’s role in Science and Technology. The establishment of the working group marks the successful completion of one of the goals included in the 5-year action plan of the current administration. 
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Communication. Science and Technology, his excellency, Mr. Mohamed Maleeh Jamaal. The Minister noted that whilst it is estimated that almost 50% of the Maldivian population consists of women, the number of women engaging in Science and Technology sectors does not even come close to what is desired and needed for the country. Also speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Hafzath Ali, a member of the working group highlighted the obstacles faced by female individuals working in the sector.

The working group comprises of seven members chosen on a point basis amongst applicants. They will be undertaking an advisory role in creating policies, job opportunities and education facilities specifically targeted towards women in Science and Technology. Members of the working group and their representative institutions and sectors are as follows;

Deputy Minister, Ms. Fathimath Shaheedha representing Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology Assistant Director, Ms. Mahfooza Waheed representing Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services Deputy Director General, Ms. Shazna Ali representing the Office of the Chief Technology Officer Ms. Aminath Firshana representing Women in Tech, an NGO Ms. Hafzath Ali, representing the technological industry Ms. Azraar, representing the engineering industry Ms. Fathimath Niztharan, representing the science industry 
(Cover Photo: MoCST)