Women in STEM Research Exhibition

Celebrating female achievements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

February 11, 2025

09:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Women in STEM Research Exhibition: Let's Change the World

The Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics (AIDA) Lab and the Data Science Club, under the leadership of Dr. Heba Khoshaim, Vice President of the Women's Campus, and the supervision of Prof. Tanzila Saba, proudly hosted a combined celebration for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science and the 4th Women in STEM Research Exhibition on February 11, 2025, at Prince Sultan University.

This landmark event brought together leaders, researchers, and students from diverse scientific fields to promote full and equal access to participation in science for women and girls. With the powerful exhibition theme "Women in STEM: Let's Change the World", it showcased the largest-ever regional collection of innovative projects led by women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The celebration emphasized the importance of science and gender equality as essential pillars in achieving key development frameworks such as Saudi Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030), and the principles of the United Nations General Assembly resolution.

Empowering women in STEM is vital for closing the gender gap, fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and enhancing the quality of research. This event not only recognized the achievements of Saudi women in science but also reinforced the commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable scientific community.

Panel Discussion: Encouraging the Next Generation of Women in Science

The panel discussion featured distinguished female scientists and educators, including Dr. Abrar Wafa, Prof. Fatima Azmi, Dr. Samha Z. Al-Ayoubi, and Dr. Wafa Labib, moderated by Dr. Orchida Fayez, PhD, SFHEA.

The discussion began with each panelist introducing themselves and sharing their journey in the tech industry. The speakers emphasized the importance of increasing female representation in STEM fields and highlighted the critical role of mentors and role models in shaping successful careers. They discussed the challenges women commonly face in STEM and provided valuable recommendations for young professionals aspiring to build their careers in technology.

Panelists

Dr. Abrar Wafa

College of Computer and Information Sciences

Shared insights on overcoming gender barriers in technology fields.

Prof. Fatima Azmi

College of Humanities and Sciences

Discussed the importance of early STEM education for girls.

Dr. Samha Al-Ayoubi

College of Humanities and Sciences

Highlighted mental challenges women face in scientific careers.

Dr. Wafa Labib

College of Architecture & Design

Shared her vision for the future of women in STEM fields.

Exhibition Objectives

Encourage female participation from different STEM fields aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, SDG4 & SDG5
Introduce role models of women and girls who currently excel in science, technology, engineering and math
Inspire young girls towards careers in STEM fields
Showcase innovative projects from schools and universities
Recognize outstanding achievements of female faculty and researchers

Exhibition Categories

Product

An independent study project carried out during an academic year by students under supervision of their professors. Includes graphic parts and explanatory summary.

Prototype

A working model used to test a design solution, typically built during student Design & Build challenges to determine effectiveness before final production.

Research-based Project

Scientific endeavors to answer research questions, including case studies, cohort studies, surveys, and secondary data analysis like meta-analysis.

Participating Institutions

Event Schedule

11:30 AM - 11:45 AM

Opening Speech

Dr. Nora Almezeini -- Assistant Vice President, Women for Campus, Prince Sultan University

11:45 AM - 11:55 AM

Introduction

Prof. Tanzila Saba, AIDA Lab Leader, Prince Sultan University

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Panel Discussion

Moderated by Dr. Orchida Fayez

Finding mentors and women opportunities in tech industry
Mental challenges in STEM careers
Future for women in STEM fields

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Open Floor for Audience (Q&A)

Interactive session with panelists

1:10 PM - 1:20 PM PM

Closing Remarks

Prof. Tanzila Saba

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Winners' announcement

Zainab Mariya Mohiuddin

Recognizing Achievements

As part of this year's initiative, we introduced a dedicated segment to appreciate the contributions of PSU female faculty members, researchers, and students. Their efforts in advancing knowledge, developing cutting-edge solutions, and inspiring future generations were highlighted and celebrated.