The Kingdom has recently experienced a lot of unfair attacks. The issue of women is regarded as one of the main topics of discourse in these vicious campaigns. I realize that it is extremely crucial for women to be available at international conferences and forums. Having a woman attend such events would allow her the chance to answer questions about the reality of Saudi women. It would also help in changing the stereotypical picture portrayed by the media in the minds of the Western people.

The attendance of those who can convey a realistic image of Saudi society to the West at such events is very important. World conferences and forums are usually full of distinguished teachers, doctors and important figures. Whatever information they receive from us, they could easily pass on to their societies.

I noticed how important it is to be present at such events, when I participated in an international conference that was held in Istanbul. There were around 100 researchers participating in the event from countries like Japan, Korea, Malaysia, India, Iran, Turkey, Romania, Serbia, Macedonia, Finland, the United States and Canada. I was the only participant from the Arab world.

It was a chance to present what I had in mind to those who are ignorant of the true nature of Islam. I explained Islam’s position on different issues including that of other religions, Hijab and polygamy. It was an excellent opportunity to change people’s misconceptions of Saudi Arabia as a desert land with lots of oil.

I attended the conference with the approval of the Women’s University administration and support from the Ministry of Higher Education. Academics and faculty members can now participate in international conferences — a development which is very good and which will reflect positively on the proficiency of Saudi teachers.

Faculty members shouldn’t just attend forums to enrich their knowledge in a certain field. They should expand their horizons and visit universities, familiarize themselves with their systems and libraries, and meet researchers in different fields to exchange expertise.

Encouraging women faculty members to attend and participate in international scientific conferences and training courses is a promising step that would help elevate the competence of academics and bring them up to international standards. There is nothing that will demonstrate the achievements of Saudi women better than having them speak for themselves in front of the world.

Individual women are trying so hard to challenge attacks on Saudi Arabia. But my experience in Istanbul gave me a clearer picture of how the Women’s University could contribute to promoting the image of women and highlight their hard work and success.