Professor proposes to build on local identity

Abu Dhabi: Dr Amal Abdullah Juma Al Qubaisi, a professor of architecture at UAE University, adds diversity to the list of registered Federal National Council candidates.

She also holds a PhD in conservation of architectural heritage in the UAE.

On day two of the registration process, she made her way to the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry as part of what she said is a "national duty and social responsibility to participate in the elections".

Hopeful

"If I weren't hopeful about winning, I wouldn't have nominated myself; after all, my name also means 'hope'," she said lightheartedly. "I will do what I can to do well and for the good of the country. I will try, with whatever capacities I have, to serve the people and the government." Dr Amal told Gulf News that women play a crucial role in society, and that the FNC elections are a chance for women to prove themselves in the political field.

"I don't think there was any hesitation on women's part to participate in the elections."

While Dr Amal's election agenda deals with women's issues, it also deals with a range of other matters. "I will focus on five different areas - political, economical, social, cultural and environmental, and I will use my experience and academic background."

Dr Amal has worked on international projects with Unesco for the preservation of Al Ain's heritage, and has represented the UAE in different international conferences and meetings with organisations such as the World Heritage Centre.

"The UAE identity has been lost. We have to know what we have to build on it; not only by conserving sites and buildings, but by reflecting the spirit of traditional architecture and local character in contemporary architecture and planning.

This is the side of preservation that you will see. The part you will feel is by getting younger local generation to get acquainted with their ... country's history."