Schlumberger Foundation Commemorates 1,000th Faculty for the Future Scholarship Award

Celebrating a Milestone: Schlumberger Foundation's 1,000th Scholarship Award

The Schlumberger Foundation has reached a significant milestone in its commitment to advancing women's participation in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This year, they celebrate the 1,000th scholarship awarded through their flagship program, 'Faculty for the Future.' Launched in 2004, this initiative is crucial for promoting education and scientific expertise in regions significantly lacking in such resources.

On April 22, 2026, the Foundation announced that 163 scholarships were awarded to exceptional women from medium and low-income countries for the academic year 2026-2027. This year’s recipients include 54 new scholars and 109 renewing recipients, who together form a diverse global community of female innovators, educators, and leaders leveraging scientific knowledge to address fundamental challenges in their home countries.

Since its inception, the 'Faculty for the Future' program has transformed educational and research capabilities within STEM fields in various nations. A recent survey conducted amongst the scholarship recipients revealed that about 83% of them continue to contribute actively in academia. They significantly impact research, teaching, and student mentoring. Specifically, the scholars collectively instruct over 185,000 students and supervise nearly 900 graduate students in their research efforts.

The societal and institutional benefits resulting from this program are tangible. Notably, neurologists such as Deise Catamo and Helena Buque have pioneered groundbreaking advancements in neurological care and research in Mozambique. Meanwhile, Shakardokht Jafari, the founder of TRUEinvivo®, has translated her research into life-saving dosimetry technology for radiation therapy. These examples showcase how scholarship recipients are not only educators but also active changemakers in their fields.

Furthermore, nearly 59% of surveyed scholars reported active engagement in public policy development, which strengthens national and regional agendas. For instance, Happy Magoha serves as the chair of Tanzania’s food scientists technical committee, while Gayatri Indah is a technical expert in seismology with Indonesia's national risk mapping committee. Additionally, Mekdelawit Deribe and Rania Al-Zou'bi base their doctoral research on physical modeling aimed at fostering sustainable river system management in their respective regions.

Entrepreneurial spirit is another essence of this program, with 20% of surveyed scholars identifying as entrepreneurs. They are launching new ventures that foster innovation, stimulate economic growth, and create social impact. A prominent example is Sadiyo Siad, who founded Hano Academy, Hano Technical University, Somali STEM Society, and Hano Connect, thus enhancing STEM education and vocational training across Somalia.

Capella Festa, president of the Schlumberger Foundation, articulated the program's vision: "The Faculty for the Future initiative was established two decades ago as a visionary response to the dual needs for scientific expertise in resource-lacking regions and bridging the gender gap in STEM fields. By empowering women researchers to contribute to education, innovation, and leadership with their diverse perspectives, the program illustrates that diversity strengthens research and creates a significant, lasting impact."

The Schlumberger Foundation is steadfast in its belief that promoting women in STEM is essential for fostering equitable and sustainable development globally. It remains dedicated to expanding the reach and impact of the 'Faculty for the Future' program, ensuring that its mission continues to resonate within the global academic community.

For further information about 'Faculty for the Future', please visit Schlumberger Foundation.