UKIERI is a bilateral legacy programme supported by the Government of India and the UK, and managed by the British Council. It has played a pivotal role in shaping transnational education in both India and the UK. The programme has brought about changes at the systemic, institutional, and individual levels and has a unique story to tell. Since its inception in 2006, pioneering work has been done under the programme and, in this phase of UKIERI, one focus is to develop pathways for women leaders in space sciences and allied areas.
UKIERI strand 2 is supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) with Coventry University (UK) as the delivery partner.
The Women in Space Leadership Programme (WiSLP) aims to support institutions in the space and allied sciences sectors in strengthening gender-inclusive practices and policies. It also seeks to empower female scientists and researchers to reflect on their unique social and professional challenges and explore pathways to leadership positions.
A key learning from the programme was the value of being agile and embracing out-of-the-box thinking, while recognising that individuals work towards a shared goal—often while navigating their own, sometimes conflicting, challenges. In this context, effective communication emerged as the crucial bridge for understanding diverse perspectives and fostering alignment.
A total of 196 scientists and researchers were trained across five locations (Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Indore, Hyderabad) in India. Out of which 15 participants were selected for a two-week master trainer programme in the UK. The participants were empowered with the tools, knowledge, and insights necessary to lead teams, manage projects, and make strategic decisions effectively.