WiSE (Women in Science & Engineering from Rural Parts of India), an IIT Bombay initiative launched in 2023 by Prof. Rajesh Zele, aims to encourage 10th-grade girls from rural areas to pursue STEM, addressing the gender gap in higher education.

The 2025 edition welcomed 200 girls from 68 rural schools across Maharashtra and Karnataka, along with 25 women teachers. Supported by over 70 volunteers and funded by the IEEE Circuits and Systems Society and IIT Bombay, this year’s programme showcased the power of collective effort and mentorship.

Each day began with inspiring talks by accomplished women, the “Winspirers,” including:

• Major Mohini Kulkarni
• Dr. Ratna Raje
• Aparna Popat
• Kalyani Deopujari
• Judge Laxmi Rao
• Dr. Dhanshree Lele
• Geeta Tandon
• Varsha Parchure
• Aabha Chaubal
• Dr. Jahanvi Kedare
• Rutaja Kedare

Afternoons featured hands-on BMP (Break-Make-Program) sessions using aiCAS Lab kits, where participants built electronic circuits, FM radios, sensor systems, and Crab Rover robots. Additional demonstrations included bacterial art, robotic arms, and AUVs developed at IIT Bombay.

At the closing Thanksgiving event, the girls showcased vibrant performances. Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, IEEE Board Member Dr. Rajiv Joshi, and Prof. Zele addressed and inspired attendees. Commissioner T. Gopalakrishna (JNV) and Mr. Ravi Lad (EMRS) were also felicitated during the event.

By nurturing curiosity and confidence, IIT Bombay’s WiSE initiative is shaping a future where more young women from rural India step boldly into science and engineering, ready to innovate and lead.

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