Dr. Babita Paudel received the Humboldt Alumni Award in 2022 from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Germany, for her initiative on “Capacity Building of Female Academics and Researchers in STEM through Networking to Reduce the Gender Gap in Nepal.

Gender disparity in STEM remains a critical issue in Nepal, where women represent only 7.8% of the research community (UNESCO). This underrepresentation is driven by multiple interlinked factors, including persistent gender stereotypes, societal expectations, lack of inclusive policies, limited female role models, insufficient mentorship programs, and scarce opportunities for networking and capacity building. These barriers not only hinder the participation of women but also limit diversity, innovation, and scientific advancement. The absence of women’s perspectives in research often leads to biased outcomes, yet this issue has received minimal attention in Nepal to date.

This initiative aims to empower, inspire, and support girls and women in STEM through strategic interventions focused on networking, mentoring, skill development, visibility of role models, and policy advocacy.

Key Milestones of the Initiative:

• Creation of Nepal’s First Women in STEM Database:
  A pioneering platform to facilitate collaboration and networking among women in STEM. 
    Database

• Nationwide Capacity-Building Activities:
  A series of both in-person and virtual programs was conducted across all seven provinces in partnership with universities, campuses, and research institutions.

• Mentorship and Role Model Visibility:
  Structured mentorship programs and the active promotion of inspiring female role models to encourage young girls and women to pursue STEM careers.

• Social Media Campaign and Engagement:
  Launch of targeted campaigns to share information on scholarships, funding, and career opportunities. This has led to the formation of vibrant online communities such as Women in STEM, Nepal on Facebook, and the Women in STEM Club, Nepal on LinkedIn.

• Policy Advocacy:
  Active engagement with policymakers to push for gender-sensitive reforms and the creation of enabling environments for women in STEM.

• Conference Grants for Girls/Women:
  Financial support provided to female students and early-career researchers to enhance their participation and visibility in scientific conferences.