The UNESCO Chair on Gender Inclusion and Skill Development is dedicated to advancing gender equality through transformative Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiatives. It aims to unlock the vast, untapped potential of India’s young girls and women by addressing systemic gender barriers and encouraging greater participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. By challenging societal norms and breaking the persistent “glass ceiling,” the Chair strives to create pathways for women to pursue and thrive in STEM careers. Led by a committed advocate for inclusive skill development, the initiative fosters multi-stakeholder collaboration, promotes policy advocacy, and brings together inspiring women leaders who have made significant contributions within the STEM ecosystem. 

In the context of India’s evolving workforce needs, the urgency for such interventions is clear. With only a small percentage of youth receiving formal vocational training—and an even lower representation of women, particularly in rural areas—there is a critical need to expand access to skill development opportunities. Additionally, women remain underrepresented in higher education and significantly marginalized in STEM disciplines. The UNESCO Chair seeks to bridge this gap by equipping women with future-ready skills aligned with emerging sectors such as manufacturing, green energy, sustainability, and advanced technologies. By fostering a gender-diverse workforce and enabling women to take on non-traditional roles, the Chair contributes to building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economies in an increasingly technology-driven world.