Asia's first UNESCO Chair for gender and skills opens in India

On April 24, 2026, a milestone for educational equity was reached in Pune, India, with the opening of Asia's first UNESCO Chair on Gender Inclusion and Skill Development at the Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU).

Led by Dr.

Swati Mujumdar, this initiative aims to bridge the gender gap in high-growth industries like artificial intelligence, robotics, and semiconductor technology.

By focusing on women from underserved communities, the Chair serves as a vital research hub, creating curricula that align vocational training with modern industry needs.

The project supports global goals for gender equality and education, specifically addressing UN SDGs 4 and 5.

This launch coincides with the 'Women Leading the Future of Work' conference, highlighting the urgent need to remove systemic barriers to female participation in technical fields.

With over 10,000 girls already trained and successfully placed in professional roles through preliminary phases, the initiative is poised to significantly strengthen India’s workforce.

By fostering digital and green skills, the Chair ensures that women are not just observers of the future economy, but key drivers, transforming the landscape of global technology and manufacturing.