Sharifa Al Haroun, a researcher with a master's degree in Innovation and Technology Management from the College of Education, Administrative and Technical Sciences at Arabian Gulf University (AGU), has been awarded the "Best Scientific Research" Award at the 8th Equal Opportunities Conference. The conference, held in February and co-organised by Ahlia University, Brunel University (UK), and the University of Business and Technology (Saudi Arabia), featured numerous researchers and specialists in social sciences.

Al Haroun was awarded for her study entitled "Challenges Facing the Use of ChatGPT in the Public Sector in Bahrain," which she conducted alongside Professor of Management Information Systems in the Department of Innovation and Technology Management, Prof. Fairouz Aldhmour. This research delves into the pressing issues surrounding the implementation of artificial intelligence applications, particularly ChatGPT, within Bahrain's public sector.

The study explored critical topics such as privacy, data security, costs, and employee preparedness regarding the skills necessary for utilising these technologies. The judging panel lauded the research for its significance, deeming it a valuable contribution to academic discourse on AI adoption in government institutions. The audience engaged actively with the findings, reflecting the relevance of digital transformation in today’s global landscape.

Prof. Aldhmour remarked that this award underscores the academic excellence of AGU graduates and highlights their potential to offer innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. Al-Haroun expressed her hope that her research would pave the way for further applied studies supporting sustainable digital transformation in the public sector.