CHINA : 5th International Conference on Women in Science, Engineering, Economy, Technology, and Innovation (SE²TI)
From 9 to 11 October 2025, the International Science, Technology and Innovation Center (ISTIC) and the International Centre for Engineering Education (ICEE), both under the auspices of UNESCO, co-hosted the 5th International Conference on Women in Science, Engineering, Economy, Technology, and Innovation (SE²TI) in Beijing, China.
This year’s conference, held under the theme “Trailblazer of Tomorrow’s Innovations”, brought together leaders, researchers, innovators, and experts from across the globe. The event highlighted their achievements, fostered knowledge-sharing, and explored strategies to advance gender equity in SE²TI fields.
A Longstanding Collaboration
SE²TI 2025 builds on the legacy of four previous forums organized by ISTIC and ICEE in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which laid the foundation for empowering women in science and technology.
Since 2011, the two institutions have convened biennial programs designed to showcase women’s excellence in shaping the future of science, engineering, economy, technology, and innovation:
- International Forum on Women in Science and Technology in Muslim Countries (20–22 September 2011)
- International Forum on Developing Women’s Talents in Science, Technology, and Innovation (25–26 May 2015)
- 3rd Biennial International Conference on Women in STI: Innovative Solutions for the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2016–2030 (15–16 May 2017)
- 4th Biennial International Conference on Women in STI: Empowering Women through Technology (22–23 July 2019)
In 2025, the conference reaffirmed this mission, underscoring women’s role as pioneers of tomorrow’s innovations.
A Rich and Dynamic Program
Over three days, ISTIC curated a diverse programme of keynote speeches, plenary sessions, panel discussions, forums, and interactive workshops. Speakers were selected for their outstanding contributions in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, engineering, chemistry, and digital innovation.
Beyond celebrating achievements, the conference placed strong emphasis on practical strategies, mentorship, inclusive leadership, and policy development, to strengthen gender equity.
The program was structured around six core themes:
- Breaking Barriers – Policy Reforms for Women in STI
- Gender Equality – Women as Catalysts of Innovation
- Science & Engineering – Women Driving Breakthroughs
- Education – Nurturing the Next Generation of Innovators
- Economy – Women Driving Growth through Innovation
- Disruptive Technology – Women Pioneering the Future
Key Highlights
The conference opened with special addresses from global leaders, including a keynote video by former UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova, as well as remarks from Tsinghua University and Mohd Basyaruddin Abdul Rahman, Chair of the ISTIC Governing Board.
Plenary sessions led by distinguished speakers reinforced the crucial role of women as drivers of innovation and emphasized the link between gender equity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Participants engaged in thought-provoking exchanges, sharing strategies and insights that connected women’s empowerment to broader technological and economic progress. Discussions also focused on dismantling systemic barriers and amplifying women’s voices across SE²TI disciplines.
An Inspiring Conclusion
The event concluded with a study visit to Tsinghua University’s research and innovation laboratories. Delegates left inspired by the collaborative spirit, the actionable knowledge exchanged, and the shared commitment to advancing women as leaders and innovators.
By bringing together government agencies, universities, research institutions, and women’s professional organizations, SE²TI 2025 demonstrated the transformative power of international collaboration in driving gender equity.
