Azores hosted a second local workshop to discuss gender equality on research and innovation in the Region

The ATHENA partner, the Regional Fund for Science and Technology (FRCT), hosted its second local workshop focused on gender equality in research and innovation in the Azores Region.

The event occurred on October 16th, in collaboration with the Regional Directorate for the Promotion of Equality and Social Inclusion, and gathered around 33 participants, including policymakers, academics, and key stakeholders from various sectors committed to advancing gender equity.

The workshop featured insights from notable speakers such as academic Professors Paulo Fontes and Piedade Lalanda, the Regional competent authority, Sandra Silva and Simão Carvalho, and a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), Paulo do Nascimento Cabral.

Presentations explored the potential of Gender Equality Plans (GEPs) to foster institutional change, reduce gender disparities, and boost research capacity. Professor Fontes highlighted the influence of GEPs on overcoming barriers for women in ICT, while Professor Lalanda discussed policy-driven efforts to address wage gaps and underrepresentation in high-paying sectors.

A highlight of the event is ATHENA’s impact within the FRCT, through the implementation of a GEP, emphasising its contributions to raising awareness of gender balance, recruitment processes, and promoting work-life balance through various focus groups and activities. MEP Paulo do Nascimento Cabral expressed his support, emphasizing the value of such regional efforts in shaping EU gender equality policies.

The event concluded with an interactive panel, moderated by journalist Rui Paiva, covering legislative needs, flexible work arrangements, and educational reforms to combat gender biases.
The workshop underscored ATHENA’s role in inspiring collaborative action for a more inclusive research landscape in the Azores and beyond.