OWSD approved the opening of the section in Niger
On December 6, was held the 1st physical meeting in Niamey and Maradi to join the organization OWSD (Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World). This organization which gathers women scientists throughout the world has for objectives:
In a letter dated 21 April, the Executive Board of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) approved Niger's application to become a national chapter of OWSD. This organization, which brings together women scientists around the world, aims to:
- Increase the participation of women in developing countries in scientific and technological research, teaching and leadership;
- Promote the recognition of the scientific and technological achievements of women scientists and technologists in developing countries;
- Promote collaboration and communication among women scientists and technologists in developing countries and with the international scientific community as a whole;
- Increase access of women in developing countries to the socio-economic benefits of science and technology;
- Promote the participation of women scientists and technologists in the sustainable and economic development of their country; and
- Increase understanding of the role of science and technology in supporting women's development activities.
OWSD: a source of inspiration and mutual support
Each country interested in joining OWSD must create a National Chapter. An OWSD National Chapter is a group of at least twenty OWSD members and friends who fully support the objectives and activities of OWSD, and aim to enhance and promote female participation in: science and technology research and professions; scientific leadership and decision-making processes, at national and regional level. National Chapters are regulated by the National Chapter Guidelines and Executive Committees must adhere to these.
Under the guidance of Mariama Issoufou, site doctor on a nutritional study at the Epicentre Research Centre in Niger, and Corinne Tchoula, head of the laboratory at the Maradi Centre, and with the support of Danise Emile from HR, women scientists with master's degrees or more in natural sciences (including engineering, technology and innovation) or social sciences have therefore joined the initiative. By hosting this initiative, Epicentre is committed to championing the initiative and supporting its development in Niger.
“This initiative is an opportunity to create a network in which members can share ideas and experiences and find opportunities for collaboration,” explains Mariama Issoufou. National Chapters can also organize training workshops for their members on different scientific topics. Awareness-raising activities for young girls will also be carried out.
Through this organisation, the aim is to promote the place of women and to encourage young people to take up science. "My dream is for women to support each other. This mutual support can create an extremely powerful lever to restore the imbalance created by inequity and thus help women in their careers," emphasises Corinne Tchoula. See you soon to discover the first initiatives of the OWSD section in Niger.
