Women scientists face a wide range of barriers ranging from family and social expectations to limited networking opportunities to lack of targeted leadership programs. Therefore, improving the skills of Arab women scientists in agricultural research is a step in the right direction. Mr. Hassan Al-Damluji, Head of Middle East Relations at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, said: "At the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, we are incredibly optimistic about the role science can play in driving change for the world's poorest people. The findings will inform the Program that will help to improve leadership opportunities for women scientists in agricultural research institutions throughout the MENA region and increase knowledge exchange and active peer/mentor networks for Arab women scientists. http://www.biosaline.orgAbout the Bill & Melinda Gates FoundationGuided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 29, 2016 14:13 UTC