Women’s participation in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine) is on the rise, with 43% of higher education enrolments in STEMM now being women. However, this progress is not yet reflected in the workforce, where women constitute only 18.6% of scientists.

Despite increasing enrolments, women from underserved communities continue to face financial constraints and societal barriers, limiting their career growth. Recognising this gap, corporates are stepping up with holistic support systems—including merit-based scholarships, mentorship, and industry exposure—to help these women transition into the workforce successfully.

Bridging the Gap: corporate-led initiatives in action

Programs like vivo’s Women in STEM Program called 'Kanyagyan' and L’Oréal India’s For Young Women in Science (FYWIS) Scholarship are actively paving the way for women from humble backgrounds to break generational cycles of limited education and economic opportunity.

Launched in 2023, the vivo Women in STEM Program has already supported 150 women, with around 60% coming from underprivileged backgrounds, including first-generation graduates.

“This program not only empowers individuals but also helps build a more diverse STEM workforce, driving long-term social and economic progress,” said Geetaj Channana, Head of Corporate Strategy, vivo India.

From financial hardship to grassroots changemaker

Swaroopa Sanjay Kanade from Niphad, Nashik, Maharashtra, and Tanushri Pahari from Chhattisgarh are the 150 beneficiaries of the vivo scholarship.

Born in Chhattisgarh, Tanushri dared to dream beyond her circumstances. A Biotechnology graduate from NIT Raipur, she overcame financial hardships and societal expectations to pursue her passion for STEM. However, affording higher education and skill development was a significant challenge—until vivo’s ‘Women in STEM initiative’ became a turning point, providing her with the necessary financial aid and mentorship.

Beyond financial support, mentorship played a crucial role in shaping her journey. Tanushri not only gained technical skills but also developed the confidence to challenge societal norms and carve her own path. Unlike many of her peers who opted for corporate jobs, she chose to work in rural development organization to create community impact, her skills to support individuals who might not otherwise have the means or fortune to live a stable life through various interventions. Her story is proof that with the right support, determination, and opportunities, women from marginalized backgrounds can break barriers and inspire change for future generations.

“Financial or societal limitations should never hold back talent, and opportunities should be accessible to all. Through this initiative, we are not just providing merit-based scholarships—we are creating pathways for women to excel in STEM by offering mentorship, industry exposure, and skill-building opportunities to enable their transition to the workforce,” said Geetaj.

Investing in the future: why it matters

For companies like vivo, L’Oréal investing in young women in STEM is about more than just individual careers—it’s about empowering a new generation to uplift their communities and inspire others. By fostering inclusive opportunities, corporates can drive meaningful social change and contribute to a more equitable, diverse, and innovative STEM landscape.

With more women entering STEMM, the challenge is ensuring their equal participation in the workforce. Will initiatives like these be enough to close the gap?