emirates7 - At the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders hosted a seminar titled “Women and the Building of a Generation Capable of Spreading the Values of Coexistence and Peace” as part of its cultural and intellectual programme. The session featured prominent speakers including Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Education, and Ambassador Nabila Makram, Former Egyptian Minister of Immigration and Expatriates. A notable audience of intellectuals, researchers, and fair attendees were present.

During the seminar, Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi highlighted that women hold a fundamental—not merely supporting—position in shaping society. She described them as key drivers in fostering ethical values and preparing future leaders. She underscored that in the face of current moral and intellectual challenges, promoting tolerance and acceptance must be seen not just as ideals, but as essential to human existence. She emphasized the crucial influence of mothers, noting that the roots of dialogue and understanding begin at home, where women play a leading role in nurturing empathy, compassion, and openness. In her words, mothers serve as the first platforms for dialogue, teaching children the importance of active listening and respecting different perspectives.

Al Qassimi also celebrated the significant accomplishments of Emirati women in various sectors, attributing this progress to the ongoing support of the UAE’s visionary leadership—from the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to today's leaders. She pointed out that women make up half of the Federal National Council, over two-thirds of the public sector workforce, approximately 80% of the healthcare workforce, and about 69% of university graduates.