BASF India, Somaiya Vidyavihar (SVV) and Indian Chemical Council (ICC) Celebrate Success of Inaugural Batch of We-Chemie Program, Empowering Women in Chemistry
- Inaugurated in Nov 2023, We-Chemie is designed for girl students from underprivileged backgrounds studying in the final year of BSc and MSc Chemistry or Chemical Sciences
Mumbai, India April 11, 2024: BASF in collaboration with Somaiya Vidyavihar (SVV), and the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) celebrate the success of the inaugural batch of We-Chemie program - Women Enabled for Careers in Chemistry, recognising students who have completed the training. With less than 30% women representation in the global chemical sector, and probably much lower in India, BASF spearheads this CSR initiative in partnership with SVV and ICC to bridge the gender gap in the industry.
The We-Chemie program endeavours to foster a pipeline of skilled female graduates and postgraduates from underprivileged backgrounds, empowering them to pursue rewarding careers in the chemical industry. Along with the training, it provides participants with essential knowledge, mindset, and skills for success incorporating a mix of industry visits, mentorship, and self-development programs.
The presentation ceremony was graced by dignitaries from the Indian chemical industry, academia, and other participating organizations, where over 40 students in the age group of 20-23 years across Maharashtra received their certificates.
Mr. Alexander Gerding, Managing Director, BASF India Limited & Head - BASF Group Companies in India, said, “As pioneers in promoting diversity and empowerment within the chemical industry, We-Chemie offers transformative opportunities to aspiring women graduates from economically marginalized backgrounds. This milestone marks not only the culmination of their intensive training but also the beginning of their promising careers in the dynamic field of chemistry. We are committed to championing diversity, empowerment, and excellence within the chemical industry and and look forward to expanding this initiative across the nation.”
Speaking at the event Mr. Samir Somaiya, President-Somaiya Vidyavihar and Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University said, "As we celebrate the successful conclusion of the inaugural batch of We-Chemie, I am filled with immense pride and hope. This program, a pioneering step towards empowering women in the field of chemical sciences, reflects our commitment to inclusivity and excellence. It is heartening to see these bright, determined women ready to make their mark in the chemical industry. This initiative embodies our mission to create opportunities for all and foster a culture of innovation and leadership."
Mr. Sothi Selvam, Director General, Indian Chemical Council highlighted, “As the apex national body representing the chemical and petrochemical industry in India, ICC is delighted to be associated with the We-Chemie project. We will continue to spearhead the employability aspect, facilitating job placements and internships for the trained women, through our member companies and the ICC's Industry Academia Expert Committee. Further, We-Chemie aligns very well with India’s new National Education Policy (NEP) and the UN sustainable Development Goals emphasizing our commitment to fostering industry-academia partnerships and enhancing employability.”
For more details about the We-Chemie program, please write to: we-chemie@somaiya.edu
About Somaiya Vidyavihar
Founded in 1942 by Padma Bhushan Shri Karamshi Jethabhai Somaiya, Somaiya Vidyavihar has evolved from a humble school in rural Maharashtra into a revered educational conglomerate. Today, it educates over 39,000 students across 34 institutions (including one private university), offering a wide range of programs from pre-primary to doctoral levels. With campuses in Mumbai and additional locations in Maharashtra, our network is dedicated to excellence in education, research, and upholding the enduring motto, "Knowledge Alone Liberates," embodying our commitment to nurturing a globally aware yet intrinsically Indian academic environment. For more information, please visit: www.somaiya.edu.in
About Indian Chemical Council
Indian Chemical Council, established in the year 1938, is the apex national body representing all sections of Chemical Industry in India. Members include both Indian companies with a global presence, and multinational companies operating in India. ICC’s 500+ membership is spread all over the country and represent all segments of chemical industry such as Organic & Inorganic Chemicals, Fertilizers, Pesticides, Dyes, Drugs & Pharmaceuticals, Paints, Speciality & Fine Chemicals, Petrochemicals & Petroleum Refining etc. ICC is the only Indian Association to become a Full Member of INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHEMICAL ASSOCIATIONS (ICCA) with representation in the board of ICCA, Association Round Table (ART) and the various leadership groups.
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 42 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.
