Women in Space Leadership Program (WiSLP): Empowering Women

The Women in Space Leadership Programme (WiSLP) is a collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the British Council, part of the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI).

Programme Overview

Department of Science and Technology (DST) and British Council launch Women in Space Leadership Programme (WiSLP)
Part of the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI)
Aims to support 250 early career researchers (ECRs) in space sciences
Focuses on developing a strategic leadership framework for women
Coventry University serves as the delivery partner

Programme Objectives

Create a gender-inclusive environment in space sciences
Equip women with tools to navigate gender biases and barriers
Build sustainable mentoring networks and peer-to-peer support
Enhance scientific innovation by integrating gender perspectives
Strengthen gender-inclusive practices and policies in institutions

Key Features and Approaches

Incorporates networking, awareness-building, and mentoring mechanisms
Based on three pillars: intersectionality, culturally sensitive approaches, and leadership theory
Addresses unique contexts, challenges, and opportunities for women in academic leadership
Expands focus to diverse areas such as engineering and social sciences
Aims to transform workplace culture to recognize female leaders

Stakeholder Perspectives

Dr. Vandana Singh (DST): Emphasizes empowering women in scientific research and innovation
Michael Houlgate (British Council): Stresses collaboration in solving global challenges
Dr. Elena Gaura (Coventry University): Highlights importance of transforming culture, not just reproducing it
Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam (IIA): Encourages early engagement of women in space science

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