BASF India, in collaboration with Somaiya Vidyavihar (SVV) and the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), recently celebrated the progress of the We-Chemie program since its inception in 2024.

This initiative, designed to empower women in chemistry, has successfully trained and recognized 135 students from underprivileged backgrounds who have embarked on promising careers in the chemical industry.

The We-Chemie program aims to bridge the gender gap in the chemical sector by providing essential knowledge, skills, and industry exposure to female students in their final year of BSc and MSc Chemistry or Chemical Sciences.

The certificate presentation ceremony marked the graduation of the third batch, where 60 students aged 20-23 from various parts of the country received their certificates, celebrating the achievements of these young talented women who have successfully completed the program.

"Though India produces the highest percentage of women STEM graduates in the world (40%+), their share in STEM jobs is only 14%. The We-Chemie program, a collaborative initiative by BASF and Somaiya Vidyavihar University, which prepares women chemistry graduates to pursue careers in chemistry, is a brilliant winning solution for all - industry, academia and most importantly, the students. We, at Godrej, are proud to get an industry-ready talent pool through We-Chemie," said Ms. Poonam Burman, Chief Human Resources Officer, Godrej Industries (Chemicals).

Priya Devadiga, a beneficiary of the program, reflected on her experience: "Three months ago, when I was asked about joining We-Chemie, I agreed immediately, excited to travel from Mangalore to Mumbai. During the course, we learned that along with academic knowledge, many other aspects are important in corporate life. We-Chemie taught us invaluable lessons for life, and we created many memorable moments together. I can confidently say that the quick decision we made three months ago is one of the best decisions of our lives. I would definitely consider We-Chemie as a 'Golden page of my Life.”