BASF, Somaiya Vidyavihar, and Indian Chemical Council Celebrate Progress of We-Chemie Program
BASF India, in collaboration with Somaiya Vidyavihar (SVV) and the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), proudly marks a significant milestone in the We-Chemie program, celebrating its accomplishments since its inception in 2024. Designed to empower women in chemistry, the program has trained and recognized 135 students from underprivileged backgrounds, helping them embark on successful careers in the chemical industry. This initiative aims to address the gender disparity in the chemical sector by equipping women with the skills, knowledge, and exposure required to thrive in the industry.
Empowering Women in Chemistry
The We-Chemie program is focused on bridging the gender gap in STEM, particularly in the chemical sciences, where women are often underrepresented. The program targets final-year BSc and MSc Chemistry or Chemical Sciences students, providing them with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, industry exposure, and essential skills that are critical to succeed in the chemical sector.
By offering this training, BASF India and its partners are contributing to closing the gender gap in the industry, providing women with the tools to not only enter the workforce but also to excel in their careers. Through this initiative, the program aims to create a pipeline of talented, industry-ready women who can drive innovation and growth in the chemical industry.
Celebrating the Graduates: Batch Three
A major milestone for the We-Chemie program was the certificate presentation ceremony held at the BASF Innovation Campus Mumbai. This event marked the successful graduation of the third batch of students, with 60 women from across India receiving their certificates. Ranging in age from 20 to 23 years, these graduates have completed the program and are now ready to make a mark in the chemical industry.
The ceremony celebrated their hard work and dedication, highlighting their achievements over the course of the program. For many of the students, this was a defining moment in their careers, as they now have the skills and knowledge to take on professional roles within the industry.
Industry Support and Recognition
The We-Chemie program has garnered significant support from industry leaders, who have recognized its importance in shaping the future of women in chemistry. Ms. Poonam Burman, Chief Human Resources Officer at Godrej Industries (Chemicals), commended the initiative for its impact on both the industry and students. “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,” she said. “We, at Godrej, are proud to get an industry-ready talent pool through We-Chemie.”
This support underscores the value of the program not only for the students but also for companies looking to diversify their talent pools and bring more women into STEM fields, particularly in the chemical industry. By equipping women with the necessary skills and experience, the We-Chemie program is helping to build a more inclusive and competitive workforce.
Personal Reflections from a Beneficiary
Priya Devadiga, a recent graduate and beneficiary of the We-Chemie program, shared her personal journey and how the program has positively impacted her career path. “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,” she said. “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.’”
Her story is a testament to the program’s effectiveness in transforming the lives of its participants, providing them with not just technical knowledge, but also the soft skills and confidence needed to succeed in the corporate world.
Looking Ahead: The Future of We-Chemie
As the We-Chemie program continues to grow and expand, BASF, Somaiya Vidyavihar, and the Indian Chemical Council remain committed to supporting the development of women in chemistry and providing them with the opportunities they need to succeed. The program’s success so far has demonstrated the positive impact that such initiatives can have on both individuals and the industry as a whole.
With more women entering the workforce in the chemical industry, the future looks bright for gender diversity in STEM, and programs like We-Chemie are paving the way for lasting change. As the program continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly play a key role in empowering future generations of women chemists and fostering a more inclusive and innovative chemical industry.
About BASF in India
BASF has successfully partnered India’s progress for more than 130 years. As of the end of 2023, BASF had 2,335 employees in India with 8 production sites and 40 offices throughout the country. The Innovation Campus Mumbai and the Coatings Technical Center in Mangalore are both part of BASF’s global technology platform. In 2023, BASF registered sales of approximately €2.4 billion to customers in India. Further information is available on www.basf.com/in.
About BASF
At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions.
BASF generated sales of €68.9 billion in 2023. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.
