Closing the gender gap in science: The role of mentorship

Research shows that women are poorly represented in science, accounting for less than 30% of scientists and researchers worldwide. There is a need for women scientists to arise as mentors to inspire and guide more women to build careers in science. This was the focus of discussion in a recent CGIAR Women in Research and Science (WIRES) meeting organized to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS). The theme of the meeting was “Innovate, Demonstrate, Elevate, Advance, Sustain (IDEAS)”, but the discussion focused on how CGIAR women role model success. The virtual meeting was held on 13 February, and various CGIAR Centers, including IITA, participated.

Giving an overview of what WIRES is about, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) Technical Program Manager Aparna Das shared the vision and mission of the community. Das mentioned that she is volunteering for WIRES because of her passion for women’s advancement. CGIAR also created WIRES due to its passion for helping women in science. “WIRES is an open community that welcomes everyone—male or female—as long as they are willing to support women in science,” she said.

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