‘Women and Leadership in Jordanian Higher Education’ conference kicks off

AMMAN — The "Women and Leadership in Jordanian Higher Education" conference kicked off at the Middle East University on Wednesday, under the patronage of HRH Princess Sumaya, head of the Royal Scientific Society. 

In an opening speech, delivered by the president of Princess Sumaya University for Technology, Wejdan Abu Elhaija, on the behalf of Princess Sumaya, she acknowledged the “undeniable achievements” of Jordanian women and stressed the importance of investing in gender equality in education. 

She underscored that despite the labour market's empowerment programmes for women, it still restricts their equitable and fair access to leadership positions. 

She emphasised the significance of advocating for change to forge a new path that eradicates biases rooted in gender. 

Also addressing the conference, British Ambassador Bridget Brend said that gender equality and the fight against discrimination are policies that foster more cohesive, productive and influential societies. 

Breaking down barriers and dismantling gender-based discrimination enables communities to provide fertile ground for progress, innovation and social transformation, the ambassador noted. 

When women are afforded equal opportunities, they become catalysts for positive change, capable of influencing policies, shaping narratives and advocating for social progress, she added.