How Initiative SWATI Aims To Address Gender Gap In Science

In an important move, a panel representing India's science academies is set to launch SWATI on February 11, the International Day For Girls and Women in Science. This innovative initiative aims to create a comprehensive database encompassing every woman in India's science and technology field. While the prospects seem promising, historical endeavours to bridge the gender gap in STEM have faced challenges.

The Launch Of  SWATI

SWATI, or Science For Women: A Technology & Innovation, is the latest acronym in this ongoing saga. Set to be launched on the International Day For Girls and Women in Science, SWATI promises a fresh perspective. However, scepticism looms as past initiatives have often fizzled out. Nandita Jayaraj and Aashima Dogra from The Indian Express question transparency and inclusivity in SWATI's approach and implementation, citing the importance of learning from past mistakes.

Reflections on Past Initiatives: From Reports to Conferences

The journey to tackle gender disparity in science began two decades ago with a groundbreaking report from the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) in 2004. This report not only received government support but also delved into nuanced aspects of discrimination, including caste-based biases. Despite these efforts, subsequent initiatives faced setbacks, with promises from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in 2008 left unfulfilled.

Societal Perceptions: Unraveling the Gendered Dynamics in STEM

A 2010 report, backed by the Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc), shed light on why women scientists leave academia. The findings revealed stark differences in perceptions between men and women, with women attributing their departure to a lack of opportunities and organizational challenges. The report rightly highlighted the need for a shift in focus from "fixing" women to addressing systemic issues within the scientific community.

Beyond Initiatives: The Call for Rules and Laws

While mentorship programs and awareness campaigns play a role, the emphasis should also move on the necessity for rules and laws to address unique challenges faced by women from various marginalized groups. Initiatives like the Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) charter and the draft Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP) 2020 take a step towards inclusivity by considering transgender identities and gender-neutral parental leave.

The success of SWATI, however, hinges on its ability to go beyond symbolic gestures and translate these features into tangible outcomes. Inclusivity must extend beyond the initial form-filling stage to ensure that the experiences and challenges faced by individuals of all genders are considered throughout the initiative's lifecycle. 

A New Paradigm: Inclusivity, Transparency, and Efficiency

Jayaraj and Dogra express optimism regarding SWATI's potential to break old habits. Noteworthy features, such as an inclusive form that recognises all non-male genders and a panel comprising both men and women scientists, suggest a commitment to acknowledging that gender equity is not solely a women's issue. The success of SWATI hinges on its ability to be more inclusive, transparent, and efficient than its predecessors. By delivering on said commitments, SWATI has the potential not only to break old habits but also to set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at fostering gender equity in science and technology.