DST, British Council launch women in space leadership programme, 250 early researchers to be supported

As a part of the programme, a capacity building of 250 early career researchers (ECRs), to become better equipped to take up leadership roles

UKIERI launches women in space leadership programme; aims to support 250 early researchers

In line with this initiative, a design workshop was held on September 25 at the DST office in New Delhi.

To foster women’s leadership in science and research, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has partnered with the British Council to launch ‘Women in Space Leadership Programme’ (WiSLP). This initiative aims to develop a women’s leadership framework to support institutions in strengthening their gender-inclusive practices and policies, specifically around space sciences and allied area.

WiSLP will be designed in consultation with experts from India and Coventry University will serve as the delivery partner, as per the British Council.

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As a part of the programme, a capacity building of 250 early career researchers (ECRs), to become better equipped to take up leadership roles and navigate gender biases and associated barriers will be carried out. The programme will incorporate mechanisms for networking, awareness-building, and peer-to-peer mentoring.

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To promote a more equitable distribution of leadership opportunities and enable a workplace culture that recognises female leaders, this programme is underpinned by three foundational pillars:

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— Intersectionality or understanding of different aspects of women’s identities

— Collaborative culturally sensitive approaches that respond to opportunities and challenges in India

— Using leadership theory from both social science and STEM to support female scientists to become more confident about their leadership abilities

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In line with this initiative, a design workshop was held on September 25 at the DST office in New Delhi. The effort aims to engage academics, academic leaders, and policymakers to ensure that the leadership framework effectively addresses the unique contexts, challenges, concerns and opportunities facing women in academic leadership within space sciences and allied fields in India.