Gujarat celebrates women in STEM: IIT Gandhinagar hosts conference for women scientists
Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT-Gn) recently hosted the inaugural edition of the three-day conference titled “Women Force 2026,” which brought together women scientists from India’s leading scientific institutions. The event commenced on February 27, 2026, coinciding with the celebration of National Science Day on February 28, which this year focused on the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat.”
Event Overview
The conference featured six technical sessions and two panel discussions, showcasing the work of 40 distinguished women scientists. The primary aim of the event was to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions of women in various fields of science, technology, entrepreneurship, and policy-making.
Goals of the Conference
Prof. Sivapriya Kirubakaran, a faculty member at IIT-Gn and one of the organizing convenors, emphasized the importance of the event. She stated, “The majority of the participants are mid-career experts in fields as diverse as cancer therapeutics and sustainable chemistry.” The conference aims to:
- Promote interdisciplinary research.
- Create a robust network of women scientists.
- Highlight the opportunities available in STEM fields.
- Celebrate the achievements of women in science.
- Inspire the next generation of researchers.
Mentorship and Career Development
The conference also aimed to provide mentorship opportunities for early-career scientists and shed light on non-academic career pathways for PhD scholars. Organizers noted that discussions throughout the event would focus on the critical role of gender representation in national progress. “Countries at the forefront of innovation invest significantly in women’s participation in research, leadership, and entrepreneurship,” said an organizer.
Importance of Women in STEM
As India aspires to advance in various deep technologies, including biomedical engineering, semiconductor materials, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, climate science, and quantum technology, the need for female leadership in scientific enterprises becomes increasingly vital. The conference served as a platform to address the challenges and opportunities that women face in these fields.
Panel Discussions and Technical Sessions
The technical sessions covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Cancer Therapeutics
- Sustainable Chemistry
- Artificial Intelligence Applications
- Climate Science Innovations
- Quantum Technology Developments
Panel discussions provided a forum for participants to share their experiences, challenges, and successes in their respective fields. These discussions aimed to foster collaboration and inspire attendees to pursue their scientific passions.
Networking Opportunities
One of the key aspects of the conference was the opportunity for networking among participants. By connecting women scientists from various disciplines, the event aimed to build a supportive community that encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing. The organizers highlighted the importance of creating a strong network that can facilitate future research partnerships and initiatives.
Conclusion
The “Women Force 2026” conference at IIT Gandhinagar marked a significant step towards recognizing the contributions of women in STEM fields. By providing a platform for discussion, mentorship, and networking, the event aimed to empower women scientists and inspire future generations. As the world continues to evolve, the role of women in shaping scientific advancements is more crucial than ever.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates and news regarding the conference and its objectives.
