Manama: The National Space Science Agency (NSSA) announced that Bahrain topped United Nations indicators for women's participation in the space sector, as highlighted in a study by the "Space for Women" programme of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. The study, Landmark Study on Gender Equality in the Space Sector, unveiled at the 75th International Astronautical Congress, included data from 53 space agencies and organisations worldwide. According to Bahrain News Agency, the study revealed that women make up 30% of the workforce in public sector space organisations but hold 19% of board positions and 21% of leadership roles. Women are underrepresented in technical, policymaking, and astronaut roles but lead in education, outreach, human resources, and administration. Supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea, the study also incorporated contributions from Canada and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) in developing a gender mainstreaming toolkit for the space sector, offering practica l solutions to promote gender equality in space policies and practices. Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of NSSA, highlighted Bahrain's active participation in the study by providing data and involving female employees. He reaffirmed the NSSA's commitment to gender equality, reflecting the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Dr. Al Aseeri noted Bahrain ranked first in Asia Pacific and third globally in women's representation in public sector space organisations, fourth in female leadership, and fifth in administration, with women exceeding 50% across these indicators. This reflects Bahrain's commitment to building an inclusive national space sector through participation in UN space programmes and implementing women's empowerment policies, positioning the Kingdom as a model for achieving gender parity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics within the space industry. Space engineer Aysha Al Haram, Chief of Satellite Design Department at the NSSA, described Bahrain's leade rship in gender equality in space as unprecedented and a reflection of the Kingdom's commitment to empowering women in science and technology. She also shared her involvement in the "Space for Women" initiative, showcasing Bahrain's achievements. Amal Albinali, Chief of Strategic Planning and Projects at NSSA, highlighted that the study's findings, the 2022 3G Diversity Award, and recognition by the International Astronautical Federation reflect NSSA's achievements in gender parity and youth empowerment. The awards recognised NSSA's leadership in women's representation, workforce age, and excellence in the Middle East and North Africa. She noted that these milestones underscore NSSA's progress in advancing women's roles in space sciences.
Menu