Yemeni Researcher Wins Prestigious Arab Award, Reinforcing Sana’a University’s Scientific Standing
Sana’a – Sana’a University Media + Other External Sources
Friday, April 24, 2026 (6 Dhu al-Qa‘dah 1447 AH)
In a new academic achievement reflecting the quality of higher education outcomes in Yemen, Yemeni researcher Marwa Abdulhaleem Al-Habbari has won the award for Best Master’s Thesis on Women’s Issues in the Arab Region. The award was announced days ago by the Arab Women Organization as part of its first edition (2025–2026).
Ms. Al-Habbari received the award for her thesis titled “The Social and Economic Empowerment of Yemeni Women with Disabilities and Its Relationship to Development: A Case Study of the Capital Secretariat (Sana’a),” which was completed at the InclusiforDevrlopment Research Center (IDRC) at Sana’a University.
This recognition carries significance beyond individual achievement, reaffirming Sana’a University’s ability to graduate highly qualified researchers capable of competing at the Arab level. It highlights the university’s growing presence in scientific forums despite the challenges facing the education sector. It also reflects the strong academic and research training that the university provides. Moreover, the award underscores the university’s role in producing high-quality studies that address societal issues through rigorous scientific approaches.
The organization, which operates under the League of Arab States, stated that the Master’s category award was jointly granted to Ms. Al-Habbari from Yemen and Ms. Rana Abdel Nasser Al-Shaheen from Palestine. Meanwhile, the award for Best Doctoral Dissertation was shared between two researchers from Lebanon and Egypt. The competition included 54 submissions—30 master’s theses and 24 doctoral dissertations—from 15 Arab countries.
Submitted works underwent a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process, including double-blind peer review and collective assessment of top-ranked entries. The evaluation was based on a composite standard of academic excellence, combining originality, methodological rigor, analytical quality, and contribution to knowledge—factors that reflect the high level of competition and enhance the award’s academic credibility.
The award is part of a program implemented by the Arab Women Organization in collaboration with UN Women, aimed at supporting specialized academic research on women’s issues and strengthening their presence in Arab universities.
Ms. Al-Habbari’s achievement stands as further evidence of the strength of scientific research at Sana’a University and its capacity to generate applied knowledge linked to development and community needs—particularly in areas such as women’s empowerment and support for persons with disabilities. It also reinforces the university’s position as a leading academic institution that keeps on expanding its regional scientific presence and demonstrating that its graduates can excel on competitive academic platforms.
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