PhD Degree Awarded to Researcher Afnan Al-Aqili in International Development Studies
Researcher Afnan Abdulqader Sheikh Al-Aqili Taher was awarded a PhD degree in International Development Studies for her dissertation titled: The Role of Civil Society Organizations in Achieving Competitive Advantage for Small Enterprises and Its Implications for Development, which was submitted to the Inclusive Development Research Center (IDRC) –Sana’a University. The dissertation defense was held on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
The PhD Viva-Voce Committee, which was formed based on a resolution issued by the Graduate Studies and Scientific Research Council, consisted of the following:
# Committee Members Designation Position
1 Assoc. Prof. Hamoud Ali Ali Al-Najjar Internal Examiner Chair
2 Assoc. Prof. Abdulrazzaq Mohammed Qaed Al-Marani Main Supervisor Member
3 Assoc. Prof. Nabil Mohammed Ali Al-Olofi External Examiner Member
The dissertation aimed to analyze the role of civil society organizations in enhancing the competitive advantage of small enterprises and to examine how this contributes to achieving economic and social development.
The findings revealed that the organization under study plays an effective role in strengthening the competitive advantage of small enterprises through project management and marketing training programs, accessible financing, and facilitating market linkages. These interventions contributed to improving the efficiency of small enterprises and increasing their market share. The results further indicated that the organization’s support had a positive impact on improving living standards, empowering marginalized groups, and creating employment opportunities. However, the study also identified several challenges, including limited funding and difficulties in reaching marginalized communities, while small enterprises continue to face obstacles in accessing new markets and improving the quality of certain services.
The study recommended developing integrated financing programs that support innovation, reduce production costs, and address the conventional needs of small enterprises. It also called for strengthening partnerships with the private sector and academic institutions to bridge gaps in human resources and market access while fostering innovation. In addition, the study recommended adopting standardized methodological frameworks for measuring development impact, with particular emphasis on empowering marginalized groups and promoting sustainable development indicators.
The dissertation defense was attended by a number of academics, researchers, and interested participants, students, colleagues, and the researcher’s family.
