Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Celebrates Women's Achievements Through Art And Research Initiatives

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) is celebrating women's achievements in education, research, and the arts throughout March. The university is dedicated to promoting scientific research and cultural initiatives that highlight women's accomplishments and support gender equality. This commitment is evident in their recent series of initiatives.

In honour of International Women's Day, SUAD has introduced a Call for Proposals. Scholars, artists, and researchers are invited to explore women's contributions, rights, and empowerment across various disciplines. The aim is to advance women's rights through research or empower women via cultural and community-based projects.

Selected proposals will receive funding, mentorship, and institutional backing. Expected outcomes include research papers, policy recommendations, digital archives, exhibitions, and performances. The deadline for submissions is 15th April, with projects beginning in September 2025.

The university has also announced that its iconic Oval Room will be dedicated to Umm Kulthum. Known as one of the greatest voices of the Arab world, her music transcended borders and generations. She becomes the fifth woman honoured by SUAD after Olympe de Gouges, Simone de Beauvoir, Germaine Tillion, and Marie Curie.

To commemorate Umm Kulthum's legacy and the 50th anniversary of her passing, SUAD will host a tribute concert by Ghalia Benali on 16th April at Zayed Theatre. This event aims to celebrate her resilience, artistry, and empowerment.

The 'Lumières de Femmes' art exhibition at SUAD's Atrium runs until 29th March. It showcases the creativity of 23 French and Francophone women artists based in the UAE. Featuring both French artists and Emirati artist Khulood Al Jabri, it pays tribute to women's contributions to the arts.

This exhibition offers an engaging experience for art enthusiasts, students, and the broader community. Esteemed arts patrons Fairouz and Jean-Paul Villain support this initiative alongside Sorbonne Abu Dhabi.

Additionally, five exceptional students have been chosen for the Women@Dior & UNESCO Mentoring Programme for 2025-2026. This global programme fosters female leaders through mentorships and leadership training while providing access to exclusive educational resources on sustainability and inclusion.

Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi stated: "At Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi we believe that education and research are a powerful agent of change capable of breaking barriers and shaping a more equitable society. This month we honour the voices of the past celebrate the achievements of today and invest in the changemakers of tomorrow."

With inputs from WAM