The UAE Space Agency has received the International Astronautical Federation’s (IAF) Excellence in 3G Diversity Award 2019 during its participation in the 70th International Astronautical Congress (IAC), which is being held in Washington D.C. from 21-25 October, 2019. The award recognizes the Agency’s commitment to geographical, generational, and gender diversity within the space sector, as part of its efforts to promote the role of youth and women in the space sector.
The IAC was attended by key space players from all over the world, who discussed the progress of the space sector within the context of the 50th anniversary of the first human landing on the Moon. Key officials from the UAE Space Agency attended the event, including His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency and His Excellency Dr. Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency.
H.E. Dr. Al Falasi received the 3G Diversity Award on behalf of the Agency during a special ceremony on the sidelines of the IAC. His Excellency spoke of the Agency’s commitment to ensuring diversity in the space sector and its incredibly diverse team which is 43% female, has an average age of 36 years-old.
His Excellency Dr. Ahmed bin Abdullah Humaid Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, said: “The International Astronautical Congress is one of the most significant global events in the space sector and we are delighted to have won the Excellence in “3G” Diversity Award, which strengthens the UAE's growing presence in the international space industry.”
“We are proud of achieving this level of international progress and interest in promoting and supporting diversity, tolerance and inclusivity in the space sector. At the UAE Space Agency, we are working hard to support the involvement of aspiring young people in the national sector, with the help of educational and scientific institutions, along with our strategic partners from around the world,” His Excellency Al Falasi added.
His Excellency Dr. Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said: “We are pleased to be participating in the International Astronautical Congress 2019, which offers us a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and expertise with prominent decision makers and key institutions in the space sector. Today's Excellence in “3G” Diversity Award is an international affirmation of our commitment to ensuring the progression of diversity and tolerance at the UAE Space Agency in particular and the UAE’s national space sector as a whole.”
The IAF’s Excellence in 3G Diversity Award is an annual award presented at the IAC. The award recognizes worldwide IAF member organizations - including governmental, academic, and industry organizations – for their contribution to fostering diversity within the space sector.