logo
Abir Bent Shurki: Trailblazer for Saudi Women in Clean Energy, Academic Excellence

Abir Bent Shurki: Trailblazer for Saudi Women in Clean Energy, Academic Excellence

Leaders16-04-2025

Interviewed by: Fatima Suleiman
Abir Bent Shurki Al-Anzi, the first Saudi woman to make significant strides in clean energy research, has shattered barriers in both academia and the professional world. From balancing motherhood with education to pursuing a pioneering PhD in clean energy in the U.S., Abir's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. In an exclusive interview, she opens up about the challenges she faced, her triumphs, and how her work aligns with Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030.
Q: Abir, tell us about your educational journey. How did it all begin?
A:
My journey began at a very young age, shaped by my responsibilities as the eldest daughter in a family of eight. I was often the one to help raise my younger siblings, and this experience taught me the importance of patience, resilience, and responsibility. However, my educational path took a pause after I got married at 15 and became a mother. After a few years, with the unwavering support of my father and husband, I decided to return to education. It was a decision that defined the rest of my life.
Q: How did your ambitions evolve during those early years?
A:
Even as a child, I was always eager to learn. But it was during high school when I realized that I had a deep interest in geography. One of my teachers, Mrs. Salwa Al-Sarhan, recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue cartography. She saw something in me that I hadn't fully realized, and her words pushed me to not only excel in my studies but also to pursue a future in this field.
Q: Balancing motherhood and education must have been challenging. How did you manage?
A:
It certainly wasn't easy. Raising children and managing a household while trying to pursue an education required tremendous support, especially from my mother, who stepped in to care for my children. Being a part-time student while juggling the responsibilities of being a mother was difficult, but my dream of earning my diploma kept me motivated. Despite the odds, I graduated with excellent marks, proving to myself that with enough determination, I could achieve my goals.
Q: What role did higher education play in your success?
A:
Higher education was a critical turning point for me. After completing my high school diploma, I enrolled at King Saud University to pursue a Master's degree in geography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It wasn't easy to gain acceptance into the competitive program, but I did, and I graduated with honors. My thesis focused on cartographic communication, which was the foundation for my future academic work. This experience solidified my belief that hard work and persistence could open doors to opportunities.
Q: After your studies, how did you transition into the communications field?
A:
After completing my Master's degree, I began working with Saudi Telecom Company (STC). I was the only employee there with a Master's degree, which led to my promotion. I served as a senior customer service supervisor, and the experience was both challenging and rewarding. Working at STC allowed me to expand my professional skills and set the stage for my future academic and career pursuits.
Q: You later had the chance to study abroad in the U.S. What was that experience like?
A:
Studying abroad in the U.S. was a dream come true. I was awarded a scholarship to pursue a PhD in clean energy at the University of Michigan. This opportunity, which came through King Saud University, changed my life. The transition was challenging, especially during the global pandemic, which led me to return to Saudi Arabia. However, I applied to multiple prestigious U.S. institutions and eventually earned admission to the University of Michigan, where I continue my research today.
Q: What challenges did you encounter while studying abroad, and how did you overcome them?
A:
The pandemic posed the biggest challenge, as it disrupted my plans and forced me to leave the U.S. earlier than expected. But rather than giving up, I applied to universities like the University of Texas and the University of Michigan, and I succeeded in passing all required exams. These setbacks taught me the power of resilience and adaptability, and I kept pushing forward to finish what I had started.
Q: How has the empowerment of Saudi women influenced your journey?
A:
The empowerment of women in Saudi Arabia has been a game-changer. Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has made remarkable strides in supporting women's education and professional development. Initiatives like scholarships, mentorship programs, and leadership opportunities have been instrumental in helping me achieve my goals. I wouldn't have reached where I am today without the support of these efforts.
Q: What does 'empowerment' mean to you personally?
A:
For me, empowerment is about enabling women to pursue their dreams without barriers. In Saudi Arabia, women now have the freedom to chase careers, engage in entrepreneurship, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. We have a growing presence in every sector, from engineering and technology to business and education. Empowerment is about providing the tools and the opportunities for women to succeed, and it's a movement that I'm proud to be a part of.
Q: Can you tell us more about your PhD research in clean energy and its significance for Saudi Arabia?
A:
My research focuses on clean energy technologies, which align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals to reduce the country's dependency on oil and increase renewable energy usage. I'm researching sustainable energy solutions that will support the Kingdom's long-term objectives for a greener, more sustainable future. I am dedicated to finding innovative solutions that will not only benefit Saudi Arabia but also contribute to global sustainability efforts.
Q: What advice would you give to young Saudi women who want to follow in your footsteps?
A:
My advice is simple: believe in yourself and never let anyone tell you that your dreams are unattainable. There is no limit to what you can achieve. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you, whether they are educational, professional, or personal. Moreover, Saudi women are paving the way for future generations, and I believe that we will continue to break barriers and accomplish great things.
Q: Looking ahead, how do you see the future of Saudi women?
A:
The future for Saudi women is bright, especially with the initiatives being driven by Vision 2030. We are already seeing women excelling in various fields, and the opportunities will continue to expand. I'm confident that Saudi women will keep breaking new ground and achieving extraordinary success in the years to come. We are an unstoppable force, and the world will see more of what we can do. Abir Bent Shurki Al-Anzi
Abir Bent Shurki Al-Anzi's journey from a young mother to a groundbreaking clean energy researcher is an inspiring testament to her resilience and determination. She has not only broken barriers in her field but also serves as a role model for Saudi women striving to make their mark in the world. With her focus on clean energy and sustainability, Abir is helping to shape the future of Saudi Arabia and contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030. As Saudi women continue to rise, Abir's story is one of many that will inspire future generations to dream big and achieve even bigger.
Related Topics :
Energy Minister Highlights Saudi Leadership in Clean Energy during Brazil's G20 Meetings
Blue Ammonia: Inside Saudi Arabia's Push Towards Clean Energy Transition
Politico Highlights Saudi Arabia's Significant Strides in Clean Energy
Saudi Arabia Inks Major Renewable Energy Deals with Central Asia States at COP29
Short link :
Post Views: 6

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Saudi Arabia Marks World Environment Day, Urges Global Action on Plastic Pollution
Saudi Arabia Marks World Environment Day, Urges Global Action on Plastic Pollution

Asharq Al-Awsat

time4 days ago

  • Asharq Al-Awsat

Saudi Arabia Marks World Environment Day, Urges Global Action on Plastic Pollution

The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture reiterated on Thursday the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to environmental protection, the preservation and sustainability of natural resources, and the rehabilitation of ecosystems. It also stressed the critical need to mobilize national and international efforts to reduce environmental pollution worldwide, aligning with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. On the occasion of World Environment Day, annually observed on June 5, the ministry underscored the grave threat posed by plastic pollution, which has escalated into a widespread global crisis. United Nations statistics reveal that over 400 million tons of plastic are produced annually worldwide, yet the recycling rate for this immense volume does not exceed 10%. This alarming statistic highlights the severe harm inflicted upon marine life and the alarming entry of microplastic particles from plastic waste into the food chain within seas and oceans. The world celebrates World Environment Day with this year's theme being "Beat Plastic Pollution," which emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about tackling plastic pollution and fostering enhanced cooperation between the government sector and local communities. The goal is to encourage the adoption of sustainable environmental practices that will lead to a healthy, pollution-free future. The ministry said that the Kingdom has made tangible progress in aligning its national environmental policies and plans with global developments. It has launched several pioneering environmental initiatives, both locally and internationally, including the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative. Additionally, numerous national programs and initiatives are in place to enhance community awareness of the importance of environmental conservation through the adoption of sound practices. The Kingdom also annually organizes the "Environment Week" event across all its regions to contribute to raising the level of community participation in environmental programs and practices, reflecting the profound concern for environmental issues within Saudi society.

How groundbreaking innovations and early detection are redefining diabetes care in KSA
How groundbreaking innovations and early detection are redefining diabetes care in KSA

Saudi Gazette

time30-05-2025

  • Saudi Gazette

How groundbreaking innovations and early detection are redefining diabetes care in KSA

The body's immune system provides protection against harmful viruses, bacteria, and other foreign bodies. However, in some individuals, this protective mechanism can turn on the body itself. Such is the case with type 1 diabetes, a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets the very cells responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. According to Dr Mohammed Al-Sofiani, Associate Professor of Endocrinology, Diabetes, & Metabolism at King Saud University, many patients with type 1 diabetes usually present to the emergency room with symptoms like severe fatigue, weight loss, excessive urination, and excessive thirst. He explains that in people with type 1 diabetes, the immune system produces antibodies that attack the beta cells in the pancreas, which are responsible for producing insulin - the hormone that controls blood glucose. However, even after the antibodies form, there is a long asymptomatic phase, and the clinical onset of type 1 diabetes happens only after significant beta cell destruction has already occurred. This period presents a critical window of opportunity for early intervention and diagnosis. Dr Al-Sofiani further notes that the challenge lies in identifying the disease before it reaches its final stage when insulin therapy becomes a medical necessity. One particularly dangerous complication of this disease is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a condition in which the blood becomes acidic due to an accumulation of ketones. Often the first sign of type 1 diabetes in children, DKA can be life-threatening. In Saudi Arabia, the mortality rate for diabetic ketoacidosis is estimated at 2 to 3.5 per cent, underscoring the urgent need for early diagnosis and preventive care. Professor Dr Bassam Saleh Bin Abbas, Consultant, Head Section of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Pediatric Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center emphasises the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. While type 1 diabetes is caused by autoimmune attacks which lead to partial or complete deficiency of insulin, type 2 diabetes stems from a resistance to insulin's effects. Therefore, type 2 diabetes can be treated with drugs that increase the function of these receptors, while type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy instead. He also remarks that preventive drugs approved by the American and Saudi FDA are now available in Saudi Arabia. These are particularly helpful for the relatives of those with type 1 diabetes as they typically have a genetic predisposition for this disease. It is also beneficial for those who have already developed the antibodies, even without any symptoms. Notably, preventive drugs can help delay the onset of the disease in such individuals by a median of 2 to 2.7 years. In Saudi Arabia, Sanofi is redefining diabetes treatment practices through its trailblazing innovations, further catalysing the shift from reactive to proactive, patient-centric healthcare. Furthermore, through these advancements, the company aims to provide families with what they desire the most, which is to delay disease onset and the need for lifelong insulin therapy. While type 1 diabetes can often feel too sudden and overwhelming, its detrimental impact can be minimised through early detection and preventing disease progression. In addition to being a key scientific milestone, such medical breakthroughs lay the foundation for a robust national healthcare system, built on the tenets of prevention, early action and better outcomes.

KAUST, KACST Set New Benchmark in Data Security with Quantum Innovation
KAUST, KACST Set New Benchmark in Data Security with Quantum Innovation

Leaders

time28-05-2025

  • Leaders

KAUST, KACST Set New Benchmark in Data Security with Quantum Innovation

A collaborative team of scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in data security. The researchers have developed the world's fastest quantum random number generator (QRNG), according to international performance standards. QRNG In a statement from KAUST, the university announced that their QRNG successfully passed the rigorous randomness tests set by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The device generates random numbers at speeds nearly 1,000 times faster than existing QRNGs. 'This marks a major breakthrough for industries that rely on robust data security,' said Professor Boon Ooi of KAUST, lead author of the study published in Optics Express . Random number generators are essential for secure applications in sectors like healthcare, finance, and defense. However, conventional systems often rely on 'pseudo-random' algorithms — complex but ultimately predictable computations. In contrast, QRNGs use quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers, making them inherently more secure. 'Unlike traditional systems, quantum random number generators don't just appear random — they are fundamentally unpredictable due to their quantum basis,' explained Professor Ooi. The team's record-setting performance was made possible by innovative advances in both device fabrication and post-processing algorithms. Their QRNG utilizes ultra-small micro-LEDs — only a few micrometers in size — which significantly lower power consumption and enhance portability, enabling broader deployment across various technologies. Dr. Abdullah Almogbel, a contributing researcher from KACST's Microelectronics and Semiconductors Institute and Director of the Center of Excellence for Solid-State Lighting, emphasized the project's alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. KAUST 'KACST is dedicated to advancing applied research that supports national goals, especially in positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in strategic fields like quantum-enabled technologies,' said Almogbel. 'Research like this has the potential to deliver high value across multiple industries and enhance Saudi Arabia's global competitiveness.' National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST), an internationally recognized authority in measurement standards, sets the benchmarks used to validate the quality and integrity of random number generators. Related Topics: Higher Education: Saudi Arabia's Emergence as Global Destination Saudi Students Organize Qur'an Competitions in UK Saudi Women in the Workforce: How Does the Kingdom achieve real Empowerment? International Mining Conference to Host Global Geological Survey Leaders in Jan. Short link : Post Views: 8

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store