Social Responsibility for Enhancing the Role of Saudi Women in Knowledge Investment at Saudi Universities

Abstract

This research aims to identify the social responsibility for enhancing the role of women in knowledge investment at Saudi universities from the perspective of Talcott Parsons' structural-functional theory. The study examines the active involvement of women in mechanisms and methods of knowledge investment, including education, training, scientific research, consultations, and scientific production within Saudi universities. Moreover, the research explores the extent of the integration of the concept of social responsibility within Saudi universities. Additionally, the study investigates the challenges faced in implementing social responsibility to empower women in knowledge investment at Saudi universities. To achieve the research objectives, the researcher adopted a descriptive survey methodology suitable for the nature of the study. Data was collected using a questionnaire administered to 179 female employees involved in knowledge investment at Jeddah University and King Abdulaziz University in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The sample was selected using a random sampling method. The researcher found that women play an evident role in activating mechanisms and methods of knowledge investment at universities, particularly through strategic practices aimed at developing and capitalizing on intellectual and human capital. Additionally, plans to increase the number of researchers in the research and development field were prominent, emphasizing the university's social responsibility in environmental preservation and pollution avoidance. Regarding the challenges, the study revealed that women's lack of genuine participation in work and competition for jobs, along with the employment of inexperienced and untrained women, are among the significant challenges hindering the implementation of social responsibility to empower women in knowledge investment at universities. In light of these findings, the researcher offers several recommendations, including encouraging women's active participation in scientific research, student activities, and community engagement. Moreover, universities should provide an educational and training environment that facilitates the development of women's abilities and skills while increasing awareness of the importance of women's involvement in the academic field and strengthening career guidance for women.