On August 13, UNIST participated in the APEC 2025 Women in STEM Symposium held in Songdo, Incheon. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and emerging female scientists from across the Asia-Pacific region to advance the role of women in STEM and foster international collaboration on ethical, inclusive AI development.
Held alongside the third Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM3) of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the symposium drew distinguished guests including key representatives from the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), founders of include.ai, and members of the APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology, and Innovation (PPSTI). Over 400 participants gathered to exchange ideas on empowering women in science and technology and shaping AI that benefits all communities.
Centered around the theme “Empowering Women in AI for a Sustainable Future,” the program featured engaging sessions such as the △ Girls in STEM Workshop, △ Women in STEM Symposium, as well as △ the APEC Youth AI Leadership Networking. These initiatives aimed to expand female participation in STEM fields, promote responsible and inclusive AI practices, and foster diverse leadership in technological innovation.
Participants, including Bertha Patricia Barrera Garza, took a commemorative photo after the event.
Among the attendees was Bertha Patricia Barrera Garza, a doctoral student from Mexico studying design at UNIST. She shared her enthusiasm, saying, “Today’s experience was truly inspiring. When women participate in STEM, diversity flourishes, and that diversity drives the advancement of AI.” She further added, “As a woman scientist, I am dedicated to contributing to inclusive and ethical technological progress.”
Young-Bin Park, Dean of Public Relations and International Affairs at UNIST, emphasized the importance of nurturing women in science, stating, “Developing outstanding female scientists and engineers is vital for future innovation and national competitiveness.” He then noted, “We are committed to expanding programs that support and empower women in STEM worldwide.”
