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On November 5th, 2024, the Foundation MIR Foundation hosted a highly impactful Peer Learning Webinar focused on advancing inclusive gender equality within the fields of research, innovation, and education. As societies strive to foster more inclusive and equitable environments, this event was timely and essential for addressing both systemic barriers and innovative solutions in these sectors.
The webinar brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and practitioners from across the Western Balkans and beyond, creating a space for critical dialogue around gender inclusion. The key objectives of the webinar were to:
- Exchange best practices in promoting gender equality in research and innovation.
- Explore strategies for creating inclusive educational environments.
- Share knowledge on overcoming structural challenges related to gender bias and underrepresentation.
- Encourage collaboration across institutions and sectors to push for broader societal change.
Throughout the discussions, speakers and participants emphasized the importance of integrating gender equality into the foundation of institutions and policies. The conversation extended beyond gender parity to address the intersectionality of challenges faced by various underrepresented groups in the educational and research sectors.
The speakers had a chance to present the featured programmes:
- INSPIRE Project: Centre of Excellence promoting gender equality in R&I. This includes the UNIGEM Community of Practice for continued support and collaboration (More on INSPIRE). Presented by Dr Rachel Palmén, senior researcher at Internet Interdisciplinary Institute, Spain Assist and Prof. Jovana Mihajlović Trbovc, research associate at the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts
- STREAM IT Project: An initiative advancing the EU Manifesto for STE(A)M education and careers, aiming to reduce gender inequalities (Explore STREAM IT). Presented by Katalin Oborni, senior project manager at HETFA Research institute, Hungary
- Girls Go Circular: A program empowering students, especially young girls, with digital and leadership skills to tackle sustainability challenges (Learn more). Presented by Ljupka Panchevska, executive director of Junior Achievement Macedonia
In conclusion, the webinar series, “A Closer Look at POLICY ANSWERS Gender Mainstreaming & Inclusiveness Guidelines,” stands as a testament to the power of education and collaboration in driving social change. The aim of incorporating gender and inclusiveness dimensions is to implement project activities in a manner that will ensure that everyone can equally access project resources and services, equally participate in project activities and decision-making processes, and equally benefit from training and other capacity building and piloting activities offered by the project.
If you missed this Webinar and would like to watch it again, you can find the recording below.