Patricia Stuart, Rector of Universidad de Lima, moderated the discussion “Women Who Transform: Science, Leadership, and Impact for a More Equitable Society.” The event was part of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Regional Award for Central America and the Andean Region, which recognizes and supports women in science.
Our Rector joined a panel discussion with Magaly Blas, a faculty member at Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia and head of the Political Advocacy Office for Medicine and Public Health at the Colegio Médico del Perú (Peruvian Medical Association); Alizon Rodríguez, a faculty member and researcher at Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos and Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú; and Yamina Silva, principal researcher at the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP).
“Today’s panelists have followed different paths, but they are united by a shared commitment to advancing knowledge and serving society,” Stuart said. “As a professor and rector, meetings like this reinforce a belief I have held for many years: talent knows no gender, but equal opportunities are still lacking.”
“As educators, we have a responsibility to help close these gaps, spark an interest in science, and empower more girls and young women to recognize their potential and pursue their dreams,” Stuart concluded.
The program is designed to increase women’s participation in science across Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru and highlight their contributions to the development of their countries. This year’s award recognized three projects led by Sheena Sangay of Peru, Andrea Orellana of Ecuador, and Ainhoa Rubio of Colombia. The Peruvian project focuses on how ectomycorrhizal fungi respond to human activity in Peru’s Amazonian and Yungas ecosystems.
The event brought together prominent figures from across the country, including María Seminario, Minister of Women and Vulnerable Populations; Eduardo Gotuzzo, President of L’Oréal Groupe for Central America and the Andean Region; and Mónica Oliveros, UNESCO Representative in Peru. Other attendees included Martha Chávez, Rector of Universidad del Pacífico, and Wilfredo Gonzales, Rector of Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, among other distinguished guests.
