1st Intl Conference on Women Development in Engineering Science & Technology

A 2-day international conference was held at the U.S.-Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Water (USPCAS-W), Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro.
The purpose of the conference was to promote gender equality while fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration among women professionals, researchers, and innovators.
The conference aimed to catalyze increased representation of women in engineering, science, and technology, leading to more diverse and innovative advancements in these fields.
Key Highlights
Inauguration Ceremony: The conference opened with inspiring keynote addresses from renowned thought leaders, including a welcome Address by Prof. Dr. Khadija Qureshi (Conference Chair), and an address by the Guest of Honor, Engr. Syed Abdul Qadir Shah, Chairman Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), An address by Prof. Dr. Tauha Hussain Ali, Vice Chancellor Mehran UET Jamshoro, An address by the Chief Guest, Engr. Najeeb Haroon, Chairman Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), and a keynote speech by Fathiah Binte Mohamed Zuki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Malaya. Their presentations set the tone for an intellectually stimulating event.
Plenary Sessions: The panel Discussions such as ‘Women’s Development in Engineering, Sciences, and Technology: A Meaningful Conversation and Insights’ and ‘Global Leaders Panel Discussion: Charting STEM Careers’ were both informative and engaging. They offered practical insights and enhanced attendees’ skills in particular areas. The discussions were moderated by Dr. Shumaila Memon and Dr. Mamiko Reeves Respectively.
Parallel Sessions: During the 2 days of the conference, a number of sessions were delivered by various researchers and intellectuals. The sessions had varied categories like Technical sessions, keynote speaker sessions, guest speaker sessions, and paper presentations.
Technical sessions
Various Technical sessions were held in the areas of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Architecture Engineering, Social Sciences, and so on. The sessions provided a platform for researchers, experts, and practitioners to present their latest findings, innovations, and discoveries.
Keynote Speaker Sessions
The keynote talks provided a focal point for addressing critical themes and trends, offering valuable insights from distinguished experts. These sessions not only set the tone for the entire conference but also served as a source of inspiration and knowledge for attendees, helping them gain a broader perspective and deeper understanding of the subject matter. Following Keynote sessions were held:
• Building(s) for the future – questions vs answers by Prof. Dr. Griet Verbeeck.
• The Joys and Challenges of International Collaborations by Dr. Julie A. Sinclair.
• The Next Generation Battery: Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future by Dr. Haeyoung, Choi.
• Exploring Gender Equity in Elementary and Middle School Small Group STEM Activities by Dr. Jeanna R. Wieselmann
• Scoping an ethical framework for information systems while swimming in the academic waters Prof. Sule Yildirim Yayilgan
• Designing for Impact by Dr. Natalia Plechkova
• Water & Sediment Assessment of Water Bodies in Pulau Indah and Klang Port Terminal by Dr. Fathiah Binte Mohamed Zuki,
• Advanced Method for Synthesizing Metal-Organic Framework Membrane for Gas Separation by Dr. Yeong Yin Fong.
Invited Talks: Guest speaker talks played a crucial role in the conference, bringing authoritative voices, fresh perspectives, and cross-disciplinary insights to attendees. They inspired, motivated, and provided invaluable networking opportunities, contributing significantly to the event’s success. Following guest speaker talks were held:
• ‘Applications of membrane Technology in CO2 Capture’ by Prof. Dr. Arshad Hussain
• ‘Road that I traversed as a women engineer: current research and future outlook’ by Dr. Aqsa Shabbir
• Andragogy: Methods and Techniques of Teaching Adults by Dr. Ahmed Hussain
Training Workshop: An interactive workshop was held titled ‘Unlocking the Power of Patents: A Comprehensive Talk on Intellectual Property and Women’s Contributions’. The workshop was facilitated by Prof. Dr. Attiya Baqai, Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, MUET, Jamshoro.
Networking Opportunities: The conference provided ample networking opportunities to the attendees and they had the pleasure of connecting with fellow professionals, sharing experiences, and building potential collaborations.
Closing Ceremony: The closing ceremony of the conference was a momentous occasion, featuring several notable speakers who highlighted the conference’s achievements and outlined its impact. The notable talks included a conference report by Dr. Khadija Qureshi (Conference Chair), an Address by Prof. Dr. Tauha Hussain Ali, Worthy Vice Chancellor, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, an Address by Guest of Honor, Dr. Tahmina Mangan Worthy Vice Chancellor Begum Nusrat Bhutto Women University, Sukkur, an Address by Chief Guest, Engr. Rukhsana Zuberi, Member of the Senate of Pakistan, Former Chairperson of Pakistan Engineering Council, and a Vote of thanks by Dr. Masroor Ahmed Abro, Conference Secretary.
Key Takeaways:
• Enhanced Gender Inclusivity: The conference promoted greater gender inclusivity in engineering, science, and technology, encouraging women’s active participation and leadership.
• Knowledge Exchange and Collaboration: Attendees benefited from valuable knowledge exchange, networking, and collaborative opportunities.
• Empowerment and Inspiration: Participants left the conference inspired and empowered to overcome challenges, advance their careers, and contribute to positive change in their respective fields.
Conclusion:
In summary, the 1st International Conference on Women Development in Engineering Science & Technology was a remarkable event that facilitated the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and experiences among professionals. The conference made a pivotal step towards gender equality, empowerment, and collaboration among professionals.