BASF India, in partnership with Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU) and the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), recently celebrated the continued success of its flagship initiative We-Chemie, empowering young women in chemistry.

Launched in 2023, We-Chemie aims to bridge the gender gap in the chemical industry by equipping final-year BSc and MSc Chemistry students from underprivileged backgrounds with essential technical knowledge, professional skills, and real-world industry exposure.

To date, the program has trained and recognized 172 students, many of whom have already begun promising careers in the chemical sector.

At a recent certificate presentation ceremony held at the BASF Innovation Campus in Mumbai, the fourth cohort of 37 students — aged between 20 and 23 and representing diverse regions of India — celebrated their graduation. The event highlighted not just their academic achievements but also the transformative potential of targeted industry-academia collaboration.

The We-Chemie program continues to inspire and uplift the next generation of women chemists, creating pathways for inclusion, innovation, and growth in India’s chemical industry.

“We are really delighted and proud to witness the progress and impact of the We-Chemie program in such a short time. Seeing these talented young women take confident steps into the chemical industry reaffirms our commitment to building a more inclusive and diverse future. This initiative is not just about skill-building — it's about creating opportunities and inspiring long-term change in the industry.” says Alexander Gerding, Managing Director, BASF India.

Somaiya Vidyavihar believes education goes beyond classrooms; it’s about opening doors and shaping futures. The We-Chemie program in partnership with BASF and ICC, has given these young women not just knowledge but the courage to dream bigger. This reflects the vision of our founder, Padma Bhushan Shri K. J. Somaiya, who believed education must serve society and empower those left behind. I am proud of these girls’ perseverance and honoured to see ambition turning into real opportunities", says Amrita Somaiya, Trustee of Somaiya Vidyavihar