International officials at the Second Asean-India Women Scientists Conclave in Phnom Penh have called for urgent government intervention to increase female representation in science, technology, and innovation (STI). Leaders from Cambodia, India, and the Philippines argue that excluding women from these sectors hinders progress on critical global issues, including climate change and food security.
Why is gender inclusivity critical for global sustainability?
Governments must integrate women into science and technology sectors to effectively tackle socio-economic challenges, according to Dr. Nhim Khemara, Permanent Secretary of State at Cambodia’s Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI). Speaking at the three-day conclave, Khemara stated that nations cannot overcome these challenges by leaving behind women’s talent.
The conference, themed "Building Inclusive Science, Technology and Innovation Communities," emphasizes that environmental sustainability and digital transformation are goals that need to be promoted.
The Asean-India Women Scientists Conclave is supported by the Asean-India Science and Technology Development Fund, a partnership designed to foster deeper collaboration between regional scientific communities.
How are institutions addressing the gender gap in STI?
Institutional support remains a challenge for women in professional scientific fields. Prof. Umesh Waghmare, Secretary of India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST), noted in a video address that while women are making “extraordinary contributions” in every field of science and technology, they continue to encounter challenges. He advocated for stronger professional networks and increased opportunities for collaboration to bridge this gap.
Dr. Diana L. Ignacio, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs at the Philippines' Department of Science and Technology, stated that the region must scale up its existing gender frameworks. She warned during a panel discussion that otherwise, 50 per cent of the women will not be included in the STI community.
What are the next steps for regional policy?
The push for inclusivity is being coordinated through a multi-national effort. The current conclave is organized by Cambodia’s MISTI and the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat and India’s DST. The focus moving forward is on adopting gender-balanced programs that encourage more women to participate in science, technology and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Second Asean-India Women Scientists Conclave?
The goal is to encourage governments to empower women in science, technology, and innovation to better address global challenges like climate change and food security.
Who is responsible for organizing this initiative?
The event is organized by Cambodia’s Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) and the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat and India’s DST.
Why do experts believe women are essential to solving climate change?
According to Dr. Nhim Khemara, nations cannot overcome challenges related to climate change and food security by leaving behind women’s talent.
Are you a professional in the STI sector? Share your thoughts on how institutional support has impacted your career in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on regional scientific policy.
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