News
UNESCO and the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), with support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) of Canada, have launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening the leadership of women in research and higher education.
The project, titled Gender-Inclusive Science Institutions and Systems (GenSIS): Strengthening the Leadership of Women in Research and Higher Education, was recently announced during the OWSD 7th General Assembly in Bogotá Colombia. It seeks to build institutional support systems and policy environments that enable women to fully participate, lead and thrive in science, particularly in the Global South.
GenSIS promotes gender-responsive practices in science institutions through two complementary approaches. OWSD will establish National Gender in Science Committees in up to 15 countries to create leadership opportunities for women scientists in research and higher education policy. UNESCO’s Gender Equality in Science team will gather and analyze best practices through an International Community of Practice of Institutions Closing the Gender Gap in Science.
The initiative aims to improve evidence for policy reform by providing sex-disaggregated data on participation of women and men in national higher education and research systems. It will also build institutional capacity by translating policies into practice and fostering women’s leadership in science technology and innovation. Finally, it will strengthen knowledge networks and partnerships by sharing lessons learned and ensuring women scientists can influence policy decisions at all levels.
To introduce the project to potential partners and stakeholders, UNESCO and OWSD will hold an information webinar on Wednesday 10 December 2025. Two sessions are available: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. CET and 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. CET, both on Zoom. The webinar will present the project’s vision approach and expected results, outline opportunities for engagement and launch the Call for Expressions of Interest for participating countries and institutions.
The webinar is open to women scientists, higher education and STI staff, students, policymakers and partners promoting women in science.