International workshop on women’s role in science and education held at YSU

An international workshop titled "The Role of Women in Higher Education and Science" was held at Yerevan State University, jointly organized by the Chair of Botany and Mycology at YSU Faculty of Biology and the Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research at the University of Vienna. The event took place within the framework of the "APPEAR Academic Project 373" grant program and the scientific project titled "Biodiversity Assessment and DNA Barcoding of Mycorrhizal and Xylotrophic Fungi in Forested Regions of Armenia."

The purpose of the workshop was to present and discuss the challenges faced by women in the fields of higher education and science, with a particular focus on unequal opportunities, gender stereotypes, and the difficulties in maintaining a balance between professional activities and personal life.

During the event, Arsen Aproyan, Head of the Grants Coordination Department at YSU International Cooperation Office, delivered a report outlining the approaches and principles of cooperation employed by the Austrian Development Agency.

"The Austrian Development Agency, which supports numerous scientific and educational initiatives, imposes requirements concerning the promotion of gender equality. Each project prioritizes increasing the participation and involvement of women. Within the framework of our project, special attention is also paid to strengthening the role of women by ensuring their inclusion and expanding opportunities in the fields of science and education. We approach this topic broadly, encompassing not only equality but also issues related to combating discrimination, leadership, and professional development opportunities," he said.

The project coordinator is Yerevan State University, represented by the Chair of Botany and Mycology at the Faculty of Biology. The participants of the project also include experts from the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia and the University of Vienna. Each institution contributes its expertise and scientific potential to various components of the project, collectively aiming to enhance the role of women and promote the development of science.