Women in Space Leadership Program (WiSLP): Empowering Women

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