Indian Maritime University organized the Women in STEM and Maritime Conference at the IMU's Chennai Campus, at the advent of Women's Day. The event started with Dr. Malini Shankar, IAS (Retd.) and Honorable Vice Chancellor at the Indian Maritime University presenting the introductory remarks and setting the tone of the conference. The Chief Guest of the event Ms. Michaela Küchler German Consul General, delivered the presidential address and touched upon the need to reduce the gender disparity in STEM and Maritime. Dr. Malini Shankar later proudly announced the success of the university's inaugural ‘Women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Maritime) - WISTEMM)’ conference. This groundbreaking event celebrated the achievements and narratives of women, creating a platform for sharing experiences and insights. She shared that the conference featured two compelling panels – ‘Women in STEM’ and ‘Women in Maritime.’ Distinguished professionals from diverse fields, including space science, oceanography, banking, and the military, graced the panels as informed by the IMU Vice-Chancellor. The vibrant discussions showcased the articulate and vivacious perspectives of the panelists, each offering unique insights into their respective domains. Dr. Malini Shankar highlighted how the moderators, Ms. SanjamSahi Gupta and Ms.Arathi Narayanan, skillfully guided the conversations, ensuring a stimulating and enriching experience for all participants. The event not only highlighted the achievements of women in STEM and Maritime but also fostered a sense of community and empowerment. Dr. Malini Shankar expressed her satisfaction with the event, emphasizing the importance of such platforms in promoting diversity and inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated fields. The WISTEMM conference at IMU set a remarkable precedent for future discussions on empowering women in STEM and Maritime. This event brought distinguished women achievers of the Maritime Sector like Capt. RadhikaMenon, India's first female Merchant Navy Captain & recipient of IMO exception bravery award & co-founder of International Women Seafarers Foundation (IWSF), Ms. SuneetiBala, India's first female Merchant Navy Chief Engineer & co-founder of International Women Seafarers Foundation (IWSF), CE Ms. Rupali Joshi Chief Engineer & Head of Marine Engineering, New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) and Lt. Cdr. Beena Officer of the Indian Navy. The panelists from STEM included distinguished women professionals like Dr. PurnimaJalihal Scientist G, NIOT, Dr. Sreejalekshmi Professor, Indian Institute of Space and Science and Technology, Dr. Manju Nair Project Director, High Thrust Electric Propulsion, LPSC, ISRO, and MsMadhura Founder and CEO of Aspire for Her, a unique start-up. The event was attended by IMU Faculty and staff, which included Dr. RajooBalaji Pro Vice-Chancellor, Mr. K Saravanan Registrar, Cmde KD Joshi (retd) Controller of Examinations, Rear AdmAmit Bose (retd) Director IMU Chennai Campus, Mr. M Saravanan Finance Officer i/c amongst the others. The conference was attended by Students, Researchers, Faculty and Staff members of IMU and provided insights into the life of women in STEM and Maritime.
