Master’s Degree Awarded for Researcher Samihah Al-Mahfadi from Inclusive Development Research Center

Researcher Samihah Yahya Ahmed Al-Mahfadi has been awarded a Master’s degree with distinction in International Development Studies from the Inclusive Development Research Center at Sana’a University. Her thesis, titled “The economic empowerment of Yemeni woman and its role in enhancing her capabilities to participate in the family decision-making process: A field study on the districts of Al-Safia and Azal in the capital Sana’a ,” was defended on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

The discussion and examination committee comprised Dr. Adel Mujahid Al-Sharjabi as the external examiner and committee chair, Dr. Mohamed Said Al-Kamel as the principal supervisor and committee member, and Dr. Omar Said Ali Ishaq as the internal examiner and committee member.

The thesis aimed to explore the role of economic empowerment of Yemeni women in enhancing their capacity to engage in family decision-making processes.

The study revealed several significant findings, notably that economic empowerment plays a crucial role in enabling women’s participation in family decision-making. It was found that as women’s economic circumstances improve, their participation in decision-making processes increases.

In her thesis, the researcher provided several recommendations, including the design and implementation of specialized training programs to build women’s capacities in various fields. These programs should equip women with the necessary skills for effective participation in both public and private life, including training in leadership, decision-making, effective communication, and problem-solving. Additionally, it is essential to provide suitable job opportunities for women, create a supportive work environment, and offer incentives that encourage their engagement in the labor market. By empowering women economically, their self-confidence will grow, enhancing their ability to participate in decisions that affect their lives and the lives of their families.

The defense was attended by a number of academics, researchers, students, and interested individuals, along with several colleagues and family members of the researcher.