Official says very good response to workshops and programmes on offer

Doha: Many Qatari women have applied to take part in workshops and training programmes in view of their participation as candidates in the next parliamentary elections, an official said here yesterday.

The Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA) has established an election committee in charge of helping women enhance their political skills in view of the historic ballot expected in 2007, the official said.

"We have had a very good response to the courses we are offering. The number of women applying is always higher than the seats available," an official close to the election committee told Gulf News.

Stronger

In April 2003, Qataris overwhelmingly approved a written constitution recognising a woman's right to vote and run for office.

"I shall be a candidate and I think women will do well at the next elections. Women are more experienced. We have gone through training and became stronger," Mouza Al Malki, a sociologist and writer, told Gulf News.

Lena Nasser Al Daffa is one of the women who has attended the SCFA course.

"I am sure I shall succeed in the elections. I have the full support of my family."

Qatari women in key positions

• Shaikha Bint Ahmad Al Mahmoud, Minister of Education
• Shaikha Al Jafary, member of the Central Municipal Council
• Dr Shaikha Al Misnad, chairwoman of Qatar University
• Dr Ghalia Al Thani, chairwoman of Qatar National Authority
• Ibtihag Mohammad Al Ahmadani, member of the board of Qatar's Chamber of Commerce and Industry