International Women’s Day

Global trends show that women make up the largest proportion of university graduates, yet when it comes to involvement with women in STEM there is still a far higher proportion of male representation than female. In more traditional societies there are multiple barriers that are preventing and putting off girls and women getting involved with STEM, that can be difficult to overcome. With the challenges presented by climate change and radical globalisation, it is now more important than ever to harness and develop scientific skills and technical capabilities – regardless of gender – in order to create the best solutions.

At Bett we drive to ensure that inclusivity is reflected across all of our events and our Asia show is by no means any different. Of our outstanding keynotes at Bett Asia this year two-thirds are female, addressing some of EdTech’s hottest topics including ‘Industry 4.0’, ‘EdTech Procurement’ and the very matter of getting women into STEM!

Among our some of key speakers at Bett Asia include two pioneers from the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). Headed up by CEO Surina Shukri - who works alongside Dr Sumitra Nair who is the Vice-President of Tech Talent Development the MEDC is working hard to safeguard the future economic stability of Asia, establishing Malaysia as a leader in all things digital. Current work such as their Tech Talent development programme is enabling the Malaysian population to hone and digitalise its current skills force. Through their work and being pioneers of digital change, MDEC is keeping Malaysia at the epicentre of Digital Economy, an industry worth 3 trillion USD.

As part of our plan to be more inclusive we are excited to be launching our very first Bett Asia Award for Female Pioneer in EdTech. This award recognises an outstanding female individual that demonstrates trailblazing work in the field of EdTech to enhance learning outcomes for students and staff. We received a great turnout of nominees, who were shortlisted for our advisory board to decide.
 

The three women shortlisted for Female Pioneer are:

• Pathana Panyathip, Director, Panyathip International School, Laos
• Hla Hla Win,  CEO and Foudner, 360ed, Myanmar
• Mona Mathur, Founder and CEO, Million Sparks Foundation, India

The extraordinary women shortlisted demonstrate clearly the need and importance of women in STEM and the wider field of EdTech. They come from a variety of countries and are involved with EdTech in order to pursue their passion for teaching and learning, and help others achieve.

Bett exists to both transform the future of education through EdTech and inspire innovative teaching and learning in this generation and every generation going forward. Bett Asia 2020 will provide forum within which such values will drive the discussion, further ensuring that all EdTech stakeholders across the region can form meaningful connections, share ideas and ensure inclusivity for all!