In a significant stride towards fostering gender equality in research and innovation, the Horizon 2020 CALIPER project recently hosted the second edition of the ‘Women in Innovation (WIN)’ event on December 28th, 2023. The event, organized by Yaşar University, garnered participation from 119 enthusiastic attendees, with a primary focus on raising awareness and encouraging more girls to explore opportunities in STEM research.

The event commenced with opening speeches by Prof. Dr. Gökay Özerim, the coordinator of the Horizon 2020 CALIPER project at Yaşar University. Prof. Dr. Özerim also delivered a comprehensive presentation on the CALIPER project, setting the stage for discussions on gender, diversity, and the pivotal role of women in fostering innovation.

Following the engaging presentations, the event facilitated a round of discussions centering on gender, diversity, and inclusion, with a particular focus on the significant contributions of women in the field of innovation.

The culmination of the event featured Ms. Burcu Kiper from the YU CALIPER team, who delivered an insightful presentation on career development opportunities for women in STEM areas. Ms. Kiper also highlighted international education and internship prospects for young individuals.

A notable aspect of the event was the active participation of over 100 female high school students. The initiative aimed to spark interest among young women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. It also sought to underscore the pivotal role that women play in the realm of innovation.

The ‘Women in Innovation’ event stands as a testament to the Horizon 2020 CALIPER project’s dedication to promoting gender equality, encouraging diversity, and fostering an inclusive environment for the next generation of innovators. As efforts continue to bridge the gender gap in STEM, initiatives like these play a pivotal role in shaping a more equitable and vibrant future.