Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Patricia Scotland, the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations, has named Saudi Professor Manahel Thabet as the special envoy for science and technology. The appointment highlights Thabet’s notable expertise and significant contributions to the fields of science and technology.
The Commonwealth, an organization comprising 56 nations and representing over 2.5 billion people worldwide, is dedicated to fostering sustainable development, advanced technologies, coexistence, and peace. It holds a prominent position in both political and scientific arenas.
In her role as special envoy, Professor Thabet will play a crucial part in connecting member states to achieve sustainable development goals. Her responsibilities include facilitating communication, exchanging knowledge and expertise, directing scientific and technical research efforts, adopting best practices, and leveraging technology to address environmental issues.
Professor Thabet will be instrumental in enhancing economic cooperation, developing policies, creating legal frameworks to promote innovation, and overseeing the capacity building of scientists and professionals within the member states.
She boasts an illustrious career with roles such as an advisor to the president of King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), president of the Economic Forum for Sustainable Development, and founder president of Consortium Consultants. Additionally, she serves as the deputy director of the Institute for Brain Chemistry and Human Nutrition at Imperial College, vice president of the World Intelligence Network (WIN), and vice-chancellor of the UK Gifted Academy.