Saudi Arabia just appointed three women to its newly formed Family Affairs Council, Gulf News reported on Tuesday.
Princess Lulwa Al Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz, Lana Saeed, and Raja Bahadhiq officially began their renewable three-year terms with the council on Sunday.
Their appointment comes at a time when there have been significant improvements in the employment rates of Saudi women, especially in the private sector.
A council focused on enhancing the family's role in society
"In its drive to enhance the status of the family and its role in society, the council is given the necessary powers and competencies to draft a family strategy in coordination with the relevant authorities, follow up its implementation and evaluate it on a regular basis," Gulf News wrote.
A few of its official tasks include drafting proposals on family-related legislation, preparing a database on family affairs, cooperating with regional and international organizations concerned with family affairs, and participating in conferences and symposiums on family issues.
According to Gulf News, "the council will also work closely with local and international think tanks to conduct research and studies on family matters."
Who are the three appointed women?
According to local daily, Okaz, the three women appointed to the council have all made significant achievements in their respective fields over the past few years.
Princess Lulwa, a member of the country's royal family, is locally and internationally known as a leading figure in the fight for female empowerment in Saudi Arabia, especially when it comes to education.
After completing her studies abroad, the princess returned to the kingdom where she's held several significant posts, including one on the board of the King Faisal charity organization.
Lana Saeed, is an esteemed professor of social work and services at the King Saood University.
She's previously held important posts at the same university, including being the assistant dean of the social services department.
Raja Bahadhiq, an MA student who is an associate instructor at Montessori curriculum schools in Riyadh, is specialized in early child education and her research is focused on developing creativity in children through the use of learning games.