Advancing Gender Equality in STEM - College Collaborates with British Council

City of Glasgow College is proud to collaborate with the British Council on "Next Steps for Gender Equality in STEM." This international partnership with Politeknik Negeri Batam (Polibatam) in Indonesia is driving positive change by increasing women's participation in STEM education and careers.

Funded through the British Council’s Going Global Partnerships, the project unites educators and experts to break down barriers to gender equality in STEM fields. City of Glasgow College lecturers Michelle McSorley and Lee Ann Clulow, alongside manager Douglas Thomson and colleague Simone Cilia, play a key role in inspiring change both locally and globally.

The initiative focuses on four areas: research and diagnostics, online seminars and workshops, policies and procedures, and evaluation. Research conducted by Polibatam in collaboration with City of Glasgow College surveyed students and professionals to identify challenges such as workplace diversity, leadership representation, and career progression opportunities for women in STEM.

To tackle these challenges, interactive online seminars and workshops have equipped participants with advocacy skills and knowledge. Topics include unconscious bias, leadership development, and workplace policies promoting gender equality. A highlight was a panel discussion featuring STEM role models from the UK and Indonesia, providing valuable insights for students and professionals alike.

Reflecting on the project, Michelle McSorley, Lecturer in Business and Management at City of Glasgow College, shared: "Being part of the British Council-funded 'Next Steps for Gender Equality in STEM' project has been a fulfilling experience. Collaborating with passionate educators and experts from the UK and Indonesia has broadened my perspective and reinforced my commitment to fostering inclusivity in the workplace. Witnessing the positive impact on students and professionals has been truly inspiring. Together, we are breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more equitable future."

Lee Ann Clulow also emphasised the project’s significance: "Working on the British Council - Next Steps in Gender Equality in STEM project has provided deep insight into the benefits of international collaboration while highlighting how experiences of inequality are mirrored globally. This strong partnership will, I hope, continue into future projects, allowing us to create positive change by raising awareness and removing barriers for women in education."

A significant milestone has been establishing a Gender Equality Steering Group (GESG) at Polibatam, developed with consultancy support from Equate Scotland. This ensures gender equity remains a long-term priority within the institution, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women in STEM.

To further collaboration, reciprocal visits between City of Glasgow College and Polibatam have allowed both institutions to exchange ideas and best practices. City of Glasgow College’s Simone Cilia visited Indonesia to support the steering group’s development, followed by Polibatam representatives visiting Scotland to strengthen the partnership.

As the project nears completion, a final report in March 2025 will evaluate its impact and outline recommendations for continued progress. The initiative demonstrates the power of international collaboration in addressing gender inequalities and empowering the next generation of women in STEM.

At City of Glasgow College, we are committed to creating opportunities for all, fostering global partnerships, and driving meaningful change. Through initiatives like this, we continue shaping a more diverse and inclusive future in STEM.