The Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with the British Council, has launched the Women in Space Leadership Programme (WiSLP) under the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI). This initiative is aimed at fostering women’s leadership in the field of space sciences by developing a strategic leadership framework and strengthening gender-inclusive practices within institutions.
The initiative seeks to equip 250 early career researchers with the skills and tools needed to navigate gender biases and build a sustainable support network.
‘This programme is a significant step towards creating a gender-inclusive environment in space sciences. By building a robust leadership framework, we can empower women to contribute meaningfully to scientific research and innovation,’ said Dr. Vandana Singh, Head of the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE)-KIRAN division at DST.
Michael Houlgate, Deputy Director of the British Council India, emphasized the value of international collaboration in tackling global challenges, adding, ‘Increasing the representation of women in STEM is critical for creating diverse perspectives in scientific advancement.’
Dr. Elena Gaura from Coventry University, UK, highlighted the programme’s focus on identifying women who can bring about cultural transformation in the field, rather than simply following traditional pathways. The programme is designed to enhance leadership capacity and promote a gender perspective in critical scientific areas like astrophysics and telecommunications.
Prof. Annapurni Subramaniyam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), encouraged women to explore the expanding opportunities in space sciences, which now intersect with fields like engineering and social sciences.
The initiative also includes discussions on building sustainable mentoring networks and integrating gender equity into scientific innovation, setting a new direction for women in space leadership in both national and global contexts.
