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Sci-Tech Empowerment in Rural Areas

On November 22, 2024, a significant event took place in Beijing focusing on the intersection of science, technology, and women's empowerment in rural areas, culminating in the release of the "2024 Sci-Tech Empowering Rural Transformation Thematic Report: HER Power, HER Stories." This thematic report sheds light on how women are spearheading innovation and entrepreneurship in rural communities across China.

The thematic forum brought together an impressive array of stakeholders, including social organizations, research institutions, businesses, government bodies, and international organizations, all collaborating to elevate women's roles in agriculture and rural development. Co-hosted by various significant entities, such as the China Internet Information Center (CIIC) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the event aimed to empower women through advancements in science and technology.

A key message highlighted by Siddharth Chatterjee, the UN Resident Coordinator in China, emphasized that the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is intrinsically linked to the active and equal participation of women. His call to action encouraged all sectors to engage women proactively in their development journeys, thereby confronting the existing trends of gender inequality.

Zheng Wenhua, deputy head of the CIIC, highlighted the critical role played by women in driving rural development and the necessity of sharing their stories on a global platform. He noted that approximately 250 million women aged between 16 and 70 are engaged in various productive activities in China's rural landscapes, contributing not only to agriculture but also to the governance of villages, rural tourism, and local industries.

A focal point of the report was how advancements in agricultural technologies have opened doors for women. Yang Li from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs articulated the importance of providing educational resources in agricultural science and technology to women, thus enhancing their technical skills and productivity. Strategies discussed included ensuring equal access to agricultural resources and promoting women's participation in agricultural cooperatives, fostering collective bargaining power.

Wang Chu Q from UN Women China pointed out that next year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, reiterating the importance of narrowing urban-rural development gaps and enhancing innovation-filled pathways for women's empowerment. He expressed optimism about reaffirming commitments to gender equality and advancing women's roles across sectors, facilitated by collaborative efforts to harness agricultural science and technology.

The forum also featured compelling case studies from the report, showcasing women who have innovatively leveraged technology for sustainable agriculture. These case studies serve as inspirational narratives that reflect the potential for women to recalibrate traditional power structures and economic advancement.

In closing, James George, the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, urged for continued commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen women's engagement in science and technology. The collaborative nature of these efforts is essential for fostering inclusive rural development and ensuring equitable progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

The significant narratives captured in the "HER Power, HER Stories" report not only underscore women's leadership in rural transformation but also serve as a clarion call for enhanced support in the realms of technology, resources, and policymaking aimed at empowering women in agriculture. As this momentum builds, it will undoubtedly sculpt a more equitable future for both women and rural communities across China and beyond.