Collaborating to improve STEMM gender equality in India

Staff at UCL and partners in India on a video call to discuss the new GATI gender equality programme - UCL is partnering with higher education institutions in India to roll out the country's first gender equality framework, improving opportunities for women in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine). The university was one of six that successfully bid for funding to work with organisations across India as they apply for official accreditation through the country's new Gender Advancement through Transforming Institutions (GATI) initiative. Ahead of International Day of Women & Girls in Science (IDWGS) on 11 February, UCL is celebrating its work with five partners: the Indian Institute of Science; Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi; ICAR Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Indian Institute of Science Education & Research, Mohali; and the University of Kashmir. GATI was established by the Government of India with the British Council, to counter the issue of gender disparity in STEMM subjects and promote greater sensitisation. The programme will help Indian higher education institutions (HEIs) and research organisations better support diversity and inclusion for talent progression, as well as addressing systemic challenges women face to participate in STEMM at all levels. It seeks to improve recruitment, retention, and support women's progression throughout their careers. The UK partners will share best practice gained from the Athena Swan gender equality framework, of which UCL is a Silver institutional award holder.