Celebrating Two Decades of Empowering Women in STEM: Faculty for the Future’s 20th Anniversary Event in Kampala
28/04/2024

Celebrating Two Decades of Empowering Women in STEM: Faculty for the Future’s 20th Anniversary Event in Kampala

In April 2024, the vibrant city of Kampala, Uganda, came alive with the celebration of a significant milestone: the 20th anniversary of the Faculty for the Future program. This landmark event brought together past and present fellows from seven East African countries, distinguished guests, and leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to honor two decades of transformative impact on women’s education and empowerment.

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A Legacy of Empowerment

Launched in 2004 by the Schlumberger Foundation, the Faculty for the Future program has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for women in STEM from developing and emerging economies. Over the past 20 years, the program has awarded fellowships to 915 women from 93 countries, enabling them to pursue advanced research at leading institutions worldwide.

Event Highlights

The Kampala event, hosted by Capella Festa, Director of the Schlumberger Foundation, and Wallace Pescarini, SLB Basin President, was a dynamic and inspiring gathering. Distinguished guests included Uganda’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Monica Musenero Masanza, and the Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro.

Attendees engaged in a series of activities designed to celebrate the achievements of the fellows and foster further collaboration and innovation. Key highlights of the event included:

  • Keynote Speeches: Renowned scientists and leaders in STEM delivered keynote addresses, sharing their insights on the importance of gender equality in science and the role of education in driving socioeconomic development.
  • Panel Discussions: Interactive panel discussions explored topics such as the challenges and opportunities for women in STEM, the impact of the Faculty for the Future program, and strategies for sustaining and expanding its reach.
  • Networking Sessions: Fellows and alumnae connected, shared their experiences, and built lasting professional relationships. These sessions also provided a platform for mentoring and support.
  • Exhibitions and Poster Sessions: Participants showcased their research and projects, highlighting the diverse and impactful work being carried out by Faculty for the Future fellows around the globe. Alumnae presented ongoing projects, from building a university in Mogadishu to providing access to safe and clean water in Mozambique and Kenya, serving as beacons of hope.

Inspiring Words

Hon. Monica Musenero Masanza, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized the critical role of education in national development: “In the contemporary world, it has become increasingly impossible to divorce the realms of Science, Technology, and Innovation from national economic development. Educating women is not just about individual empowerment; it is about transforming entire communities.”

Capella Festa, Director of the Schlumberger Foundation, shared her enthusiasm: “I love these events for the connections, the learning, and the hope they bring. Meeting inspiring women, discovering new science, and feeling the hope in a room full of Faculty for the Future fellows is truly uplifting. The world needs this hope now more than ever.”

Looking Ahead

As the Faculty for the Future program celebrated this significant milestone, it also looked to the future with a renewed commitment to its mission. The program aims to continue breaking down barriers for women in STEM, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women can thrive and contribute to the advancement of science and technology.

Conclusion

The Faculty for the Future’s 20th anniversary event in Kampala was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the power of education and the enduring impact of empowering women in STEM.