Center for Natural Resources and Sustainability

More than thirty female students of the Kyrgyz State Technical University participated in a roundtable discussion and study tour of the Bishkek Thermal Power Plant and the Small Hydroelectric Plant at Chakan HPP. During the roundtable, they met with women professionals in the energy sector who shared their real-life experiences and learned about the existing opportunities and challenges for women working in the energy sector in the Kyrgyz Republic. The goal of these events was to helping them navigate the industry by providing access to role models and potential mentors who can support them as they begin their careers. In addition, participants learned about scholarships for DKU's "Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Strategic Management" Master's program available to applicants from Central Asia, as well as various initiatives and programs offered by international organizations, such as USAID Power Central Asia, and local organizations, such as the Kyrgyz Energy and Economic Research Institute. The Association of Women in Kyrgyzstan's Energy Sector also supports the younger generation in building careers in this sector and seeks to increase the number of women leaders in Kyrgyzstan's energy industry.

The participating speakers talked about the development of renewable energy in Kyrgyzstan and shared the latest statistics on the number of young women and men in STEM careers and the percentage of women working in this sector. They motivated participants to explore the benefits of a rapidly growing industry and work together to close the gender gap in the sector. Women can fully participate in the growth of the renewable energy sector.

While discussing barriers and opportunities for women's empowerment in the energy sector in Central Asia, female students also shared their experiences. One of them explained that her choice of a career in the energy sector was not supported by her parents, and she is still trying to demonstrate her credibility. Another student noted that, although at the beginning of the studies, it is necessary to be trained in difficult disciplines, getting to know like-minded people and getting information about future job prospects usually help to move forward.

The trip to energy facilities broadened the participants' knowledge of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies and their perspective on today's energy sector. Participants interacted with management and engineers, learned more about how these facilities operate, and the job opportunities that come with the development of renewable energy.

In addition, this roundtable and tour helped the participants make the following contacts: networking with peers with similar interests, as well as with potential employers and mentors.