Highlights from the 5th Space4Women Expert Meeting

The 5th Space4Women Expert Meeting, themed "Integrating Women in Space Activities and Solutions," concluded successfully in Nairobi, Kenya. Hosted at the United Nations Headquarters in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), this landmark event brought together global stakeholders from 27 to 29 November 2024.

For the first time in Africa, this Expert Meeting underscored the continent’s growing role in shaping the global space agenda, focusing on practical solutions for achieving gender equality in STEM and space-related fields. Hon. Soipan Tuya, Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, inaugurated the event, alongside distinguished leaders such as Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, and Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, Acting Director General of KSA.

The event showcased an inspiring array of activities:

- Panel Discussions: Experts explored actionable strategies to promote grassroots education and empower women in space research and innovation.
- Keynote Presentation: A thought-provoking session emphasized the potential of inclusive online learning, particularly for Africa’s underserved communities.
- Storytelling Session: Personal stories of resilience and innovation in space and STEM illustrated the transformative impact of gender equality initiatives.
- Capacity Building Panel: Tailored approaches for addressing gender disparities in STEM were shared, focusing on mentorship, scholarships, and capacity building.

A dedicated workshop segment addressed the challenges of improving STEM education for women and girls in marginalized communities. Policymakers also engaged in a special session on harnessing satellite communication to unlock education for these groups, providing hope for more equitable futures.

Key outcomes of the Expert Meeting included:

- Gender Mainstreaming Toolkit: Supported by the Canadian Space Agency, this resource will guide institutions in fostering gender-inclusive policies across the space sector. Several countries committed to its implementation over the coming year.
- STEM Education Toolkit Development: Initial consultations began on a toolkit to expand STEM opportunities for women and girls in underprivileged areas.
- Expanding the Space4Women Network: With new national and local focal points, the network will intensify efforts at regional and national levels.
- Calls for Increased Funding: Participants emphasized the need for scholarships, mentorship programs, and funding to empower women and girls.
Collaborative Spirit and Vision

The meeting celebrated partnerships that bridge gaps in gender equality. Special thanks were extended to the Kenya Space Agency for their role in hosting the event and connecting stakeholders across Africa. The event not only underscored Africa’s pivotal role in advancing gender equality but also provided a foundation for innovative solutions to empower women in STEM and space research globally.

For more on Gender Mainstreaming here

Explore the Landmark Case Study on Gender Equality in the space sector here


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