FINAL WORD
The UAE saw a significant advancement on the UNDP Gender Equality Index last year , ascending 23 positions to reach 26th place , once again leading among Arab nations and trailing just one spot behind its objective . Additionally , the UAE is actively fostering opportunities for women in its evolving hightechnology industry , and this investment is yielding results .
As previously mentioned more than half of the country ’ s STEM graduates are women , approximately 40 % participating in the UAE ’ s Mars Mission team , and up to 90 % of scientists at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre are female .
Recently we have seen governments promote economic growth by facilitating women ’ s access to IT and AI positions . For example , Saudi Arabia ’ s implementation of policies to encourage women ’ s employment has increased the female labour force participation rate from 17.7 % in 2016 to 36 %. According to the S & P , this surge will contribute $ 39 billion to the kingdom ’ s economy by 2032 . Equipping women in the workforce with the necessary skills for IT , including AI roles , is crucial for future economic expansion .
However , improving women ’ s technology participation requires more than disclosing diversity data . Concerted efforts are needed across multiple fronts to address the gender imbalance in the AI sector and prevent further exclusion .
Firstly , there is a need to increase women ’ s participation in STEM education and careers through targeted initiatives , mentorship programs , and scholarships . Encouraging girls to pursue STEM subjects from an early age and providing support networks for women in technology can help bridge the gender gap in AI-related fields . Secondly , promoting diversity and inclusion in AI research and development is essential to ensuring that AI technologies
UAE is actively fostering opportunities for women in its evolving hightechnology industry , and this investment is yielding results . benefit all segments of society . This includes fostering inclusive work environments , addressing unconscious bias in AI algorithms , and actively involving women in AI decisionmaking processes .
Thirdly , raising awareness about the importance of gender diversity in AI and its potential impact on society is crucial for driving meaningful change . Educational campaigns , conferences , and workshops can help raise awareness about the gender imbalance in AI and highlight the benefits of diversity in AI developments .
Furthermore , investing in research and innovation that addresses women ’ s specific needs and challenges in AI is essential for promoting inclusive AI solutions .
Heriot-Watt University ’ s Dubai campus plays a pivotal role in the realm of AI education . In our commitment to remain future-focused and technologically advanced , we do not merely impart knowledge in AI ; we have also harnessed the power of AI in conjunction with other disciplines like healthcare , engineering , automation , finance and construction . By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology and applications into our educational ecosystem , we continue to shape a future where knowledge and innovation converge .
In conclusion , addressing the gender imbalance in AI is critical for promoting inclusive and equitable development in the Middle East .
By addressing barriers to women ’ s participation in STEM education and careers , promoting diversity and inclusion in AI research and development , raising awareness about the importance of gender diversity in AI , and investing in gendersensitive AI research and innovation , we can take advantage of the full potential of AI for the benefit of ALL , regardless of gender .
It is crucial to continue to prioritise gender equality in AI and to ensure that AI technologies reflect the diversity of the societies they serve . •
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