Amman, April 10 (Petra) – Her Highness Princess Basma bint Talal on Thursday patronized the graduation ceremony of the "Feminist Research for Policy Influence" fellowship program, implemented by the Jordanian National Women's Committees Coalition in cooperation with the Feminist Economy Foundation and supported by the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ).

The program aimed to equip 24 young female researchers from various governorates with theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and tools to conduct research from a feminist perspective. It focused on empowering women, identifying challenges across multiple sectors, and formulating policy papers offering practical solutions that support women’s rights and priorities.

Princess Basma congratulated the graduates, commending their achievements in acquiring the skills necessary to actively engage in society and exert a positive influence in their communities.

She highlighted the significant role Jordanian women continue to play in the Kingdom’s development, progress, and modernization, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II. She also stressed the importance of enhancing women's political and economic participation, noting their notable successes in these domains.

Princess Basma praised the collaborative efforts of the organizing institutions, particularly their role in building women’s capacities and fostering partnerships.

Ruba Matarneh, Secretary-General of the Jordanian National Women's Committees, described the fellowship as a transformative initiative that empowered participants to transition from novice researchers into changemakers. She emphasized that the program was not only educational but also a platform for trust-building and exchange, helping participants develop impactful communication, advocacy, and research skills.

Maher Tal, Executive Director of the Feminist Economy Foundation, reiterated the organization’s commitment to a women-led economic model grounded in research, critical thinking, and inclusive cooperation. He outlined the foundation’s areas of work, including employment-linked training, entrepreneurial support, combating stereotypes around women’s work, and engaging with the private sector to create a gender-friendly work environment.

Yasmine Saadoun, Coordinator of GIZ’s Good Governance and Communities Project, underscored that the fellowship enabled participants to use research as a catalyst for change. She noted that the fellows developed advanced skills and contributed to the creation of six policy papers, as well as digital content including stories, infographics, publications, podcasts, and short videos.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Aida Ghoneim expressed gratitude for the opportunity to develop skills in self-expression and advocacy. She said the program had empowered them to confidently represent the voices of Jordanian women across various media platforms, driven by a shared vision for a brighter future for women in the Kingdom.

//Petra// AJ

10/04/2025 16:43:20