WISE: Encouraging the Role of Women in Science and Technology Innovation

Bandung, DKST ITB – On September 27, 2024, the WISE (Women in Science and Entrepreneurship) event was successfully held at the East Hall of ITB, ITB Bandung Campus. Attended by approximately 240 participants from various institutions, this event aimed to encourage the role of women in the fields of science, technology, and entrepreneurship. In his opening remarks, the Director of KST, Ir. R. Sugeng Joko Sarwono, M.T., Ph.D., emphasized that women have great potential to contribute to innovations that are not only influential at the national level but also globally. He highlighted the importance of increasing women's participation in various strategic sectors for the advancement of Indonesia.

The keynote session led by dr. Sari Chairunnisa, Sp.KK., explored various challenges still faced by women in the workplace, especially in the fields of science and technology. In a speech entitled "Nusantara Need You: Wonder Women of Innovation," dr. Sari discussed gender imbalance at the managerial level and the low representation of women in decision-making. She also emphasized the importance of creating more female role models who can inspire the next generation.

The talk show session, which featured dr. Sari Chairunnisa, Sp.KK. again along with Dr. Eng Ayu Purwarianti, Prof. Dr. Pingkan Aditiawati, and Mia Emilya, also enriched the discussion with the theme of career and family balance for women. They shared experiences on how time management, family support, and gender equality are the keys to success in fulfilling various roles. Ayu Purwarianti, who focuses on teaching smart technology, emphasized that gender equality must start from the family environment, where children are raised with equal opportunities to grow. Meanwhile, Prof. Pingkan Aditiawati highlighted that women in scientific fields must have equal access to research and career development opportunities.

This event provided realistic insights into how women can overcome various challenges in the workplace and open up space for innovation in various fields. The discussions presented not only motivated but also provided practical guidance and sharing on concrete steps that can be taken to increase women's involvement in innovation. The entire event ran with great enthusiasm; during the talk show, both participants and panelists created a productive and highly inspiring discussion space.