The 2nd ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave reaffirmed ASEAN and India’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and advancing women’s leadership in science, technology and innovation (STI).
The event, themed “Building an Inclusive Science, Technology & Innovation Community”, concluded in Phnom Penh on Friday, July 10.
It brought together 135 delegates, including 90 women scientists and researchers from India and ASEAN member nations to promote scientific collaboration, strengthen women’s participation in STEM and accelerate the translation of research into practical solutions, according to a press release.
“As women are often the first and most influential mentors to our sons and daughters, empowering them creates lasting benefits for families and society,” said Hem Vanndy, Cambodian Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, as he addressed the closing of the conclave.
“When society unleashes the potential of women in STEM or STI, we don’t just empower individuals, but we unlock the keys to solving the most complex challenges facing humanity,” he added.
Ten roundtable discussions and innovation pitching sessions were held, with 55 women scientists presenting scalable scientific and technological solutions in areas including food security, sustainable energy, equitable education and emerging technologies.
The participants also visited the Institute of Technology of Cambodia and the Royal University of Phnom Penh to explore opportunities for research collaboration and institutional partnerships.
Indian ambassador to Cambodia Vanlalvawna Bawitlung described the forum as reflecting the growing strength of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“The ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave is a shining example of the growing breadth and depth of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” he said, highlighting continued cooperation in capacity building, innovation, research and educational exchanges.
ASEAN secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn added that conclaves like this one deepen people-to-people ties and open new ground in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and sustainable development.
“It moves beyond dialogue to create greater exchange among our researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and youth, and unlocks new opportunities for inclusive, sustainable and prosperous growth for both ASEAN and India,” he stated.
The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to deepen regional scientific cooperation, strengthen professional networks, and create greater opportunities for women and girls to lead science, technology and innovation across the region.
