AKP Phnom Penh, July 08, 2026 --

More than 135 leading women scientists, researchers, and innovators from India and ASEAN Member States gathered in Phnom Penh today for the 2nd ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave, launching a three-day forum aimed at advancing women's leadership and addressing persistent barriers in science, technology and innovation (STI).

Co-organised by Cambodia's Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) and the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, with support from the ASEAN-India Science & Technology Development Fund (AISTDF), the conclave is held under the theme "Building Inclusive STI Communities." Discussions focus on four priority areas: food security, sustainable energy, equitable education, and emerging technologies.

H.E. Prof. Umesh Waghmare, Secretary of India's Department of Science and Technology highlighted the longstanding science and technology partnership between India and ASEAN and underscored the importance of building inclusive innovation ecosystems.

"Women scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs are making extraordinary contributions across every field of science and technology. Yet, they continue to encounter challenges that require greater institutional support, stronger professional networks, and more opportunities for collaboration," H.E. Prof. Umesh Waghmare said.

The conclave features 10 multinational roundtable discussions and innovation pitching sessions, where women researchers present scalable scientific and technological solutions. The sessions aim to accelerate the commercialisation of research while strengthening collaboration among universities, industry, and small and medium-sized enterprises.

H.E. Souksavath Sihapanya, Director General of the Department of Science of Lao PDR and ASEAN COSTI Chairperson, said the conclave complements the implementation of the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI) 2026-2030 by promoting greater participation of women in the region's innovation ecosystem.

"This conclave provides a unique opportunity to amplify the voices of women scientists and innovators. Their leadership is essential to ensuring that our STI communities are inclusive, diverse, and impactful," H.E. Souksavath Sihapanya told delegates.

Opening the conclave, H.E. Dr. Nhim Khemara, MISTI’s Permanent Secretary of State, said science, technology and innovation are transforming the world at an unprecidented pace and are central to Cambodia's long-term development strategy.

He highlighted Cambodia's commitment to building a knowledge-based economy under the Pentagonal Strategy – Phase 1 and the STI Roadmap 2030, which aims for at least 50 percent of university STEM graduates to be women.

"A nation cannot innovate effectively while leaving its talent behind, particularly the women. We must empower women to be active driving forces in scientific advancement, fully positioning them as leaders, innovators, and primary decision-makers," H.E. Dr. Nhim Khemara said.

Women scientists bring unique perspectives, creativity, and expertise that strengthen research and innovation, yet they remain underrepresented in advanced scientific disciplines and leadership roles.

The conclave aims to address these challenges by strengthening regional collaboration, expanding professional networks, and inspiring more women to lead in science, technology and innovation.

AKP-MISTI