The UAE has presented a role model for women's empowerment during a session to review the fourth periodic report on eliminating all forms of discrimination against women, held in Geneva. The UAE was able, thanks to its vision and firm approach, to reflect its efforts in the areas of promoting women's rights, achieving equality and gender balance, and emphasizing the diligent care given by the leadership to women, by enhancing their role in all aspects of life. I was honored to preside the Ministry of Education's (MoE) delegation, part of the state's delegation presided by Her Excellency Hessa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development.

The founding fathers have always been keen from the first days of the union, under the leadership of the founding father Sheik Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may Allah have mercy on him, to ensure women's right to education, provide environment that enhances their careers and excellence, and highlight their role in developing thought, culture, and science and building civilization. Emirati women, on the other hand, were able to achieve excellence in higher education and had a leading role in developing education outcomes. In doing that, they were encouraged by Sheikh Zayed's eternal saying, "Nothing makes me happier than seeing women take a distinguished role in the community and nothing should hinder that."

Women have also received unlimited support from Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak "Mother of the Nation". Her directives have always guided women and encouraged their passion and excellence. H.H. is a role model for women, thanks to her inspiring vision and sound guidance. Her words have always been a strong motive for creativity and leadership, including her saying, "I am sure that women's participation in preparing and implementing all phases of work for the next 50 years will be effective in achieving the objectives, thanks to the efficiency and sincerity of Emirati women."

Such illuminating visions had a significant role in helping Emirati women achieve remarkable successes. Women in other communities are looking at Emirati women now as role models. They are grabbing the attention of the entire world at all levels and playing a significant role in all the areas of sustainable development. Not to mention their role in achieving the country's aspirations for the next 50 years.

Women's reality in the UAE reflects their quest to prove themselves and make their mark in the business and management system through improving work and upgrading it within well-established professional foundations. Women are fully aware that this will open up wider horizons for them in various fields to contribute with their distinguished efforts and pivotal role in consolidating the path of prosperity and achieving comprehensive and sustainable development. This makes them the cornerstone of progress, the essence of the prosperity of the community, and the pride of the nation.

Written by H.E. Sheikha Khulood Al Qasimi

Assistant Undersecretary of Inspection Sector at the Ministry of Education