Demographic studies have shown that the number of female Saudis in comparison to males is rising steadily. At present according to the latest statistics, women constitute 49 percent of the country’s population. A United Nations population report projected a large increase — seven million — in Jeddah’s population by the end of the year 2018; if present trends continue, the majority of that number will be women.
Going beyond mere statistics, the number of women with advanced degrees is greater than that of males. This suggests that 20 to 30 years from now, the balance will be in favor of women, both quantitatively and qualitatively. In addition, if other factors relating to social, cultural and economic life are taken into consideration, we will find that the situation also favors women.
Most social changes and administrative reforms currently taking place are related in one way or another to women. This means that in future, when considering the Saudis best qualified to serve in certain positions, women will almost surely be among them. Present trends are moving in that direction and there is no reason to believe they will change. Not only that, government policy emphasizes the important role of women in fulfilling the country’s development process.
What is required here is to prepare Saudi women to play such a role, especially in areas where the presence of women is already great, such as in the education, health and social sectors. Women doctors must be trained and prepared to take up leading positions, including that of deputy ministers of health.
Female teachers and other academics must also be prepared to take up senior positions within the education sector. This calls for the formation of a committee made up of representatives of the ministries of labor and social affairs and planning as well as educational institutions.
The committee would study and evaluate courses in girl schools and colleges and focus on areas such as management and skill development. The plan should also prepare society to accept women serving in senior positions. The first step in this direction would be to have qualified women appointed in advisory positions in various government sectors.
