BASF Chemicals India Private Limited (BCIPL), in collaboration with the Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC) under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the government of India, celebrated the successful completion of four impactful years of the WEnyan (Women in Education and Knowledge) programme. Held at the BASF Innovation Campus, the event marked an important milestone for the research scholarship initiative, which supports women from disadvantaged communities in Maharashtra in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Since its inception, WEnyan has provided financial assistance, mentorship, and community engagement opportunities to women scholars, creating an inclusive ecosystem that encourages academic excellence and scientific research.
Forty-three Scholars Honoured for Academic Excellence
As part of the celebrations, BASF and PKC felicitated 43 scholars from two graduating cohorts in recognition of their outstanding academic and research achievements. The event also witnessed the release of the WEnyan Compendium 2025–26, showcasing the programme’s achievements and the inspiring journeys of its scholars.
The celebration was attended by distinguished members of India’s scientific community, including Dr. Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, who served as the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Shailaja Donempudi, Distinguished Scientist and Head of the Business Development Group at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
BASF Launches WESER to Strengthen Women’s Research Careers
Building on the success of WEnyan, BASF further reinforced its commitment to gender diversity in science by introducing WESER (Women Empowered for Science and Engineering Research), a postdoctoral fellowship programme launched earlier this year. The initiative aims to support talented women researchers, particularly those from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), by providing financial assistance, structured mentorship, and access to world-class research opportunities. A key feature of WESER is its collaboration with leading academic and research institutions, enabling fellows to work alongside renowned faculty members at:
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune (IISER Pune)
CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune
Through these partnerships, the programme offers exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and industry-oriented innovation. By addressing critical barriers such as funding, mentorship, and institutional access, WESER seeks to reduce the persistent underrepresentation of women in advanced research roles.
Industry-Academia Collaboration Driving Inclusive Innovation
Alexander Gerding, Managing Director, BASF India Limited and Head – BASF Group Companies in India, said, “We are proud to see how the WEnyan programme has evolved into a meaningful platform that empowers women in science and engineering. The achievements of the students over the past four years reflect the strength of collaboration between industry and academia. Initiatives like WEnyan and our newly launched WESER programme reaffirm BASF’s commitment to fostering diversity, innovation, and inclusive growth in India’s scientific ecosystem.”
Dr. Avinash Kumbhar, CEO, Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC), said, “The WEnyan Scholarship Programme, sponsored by BASF and implemented by the Pune Knowledge Cluster, has evolved into a transformative platform that nurtures talent, fosters mentorship, and empowers women scholars to emerge as confident leaders and innovators. In doing so, it exemplifies the Pune Knowledge Cluster’s vision of building a future-ready, skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and societal progress.”
Scholar Shares Transformative Experience
Pratiksha Santosh Nigade, a WEnyan Scholarship awardee from the 2025–26 batch pursuing her Master’s degree in Kolhapur, said, “The WEnyan Scholarship has been much more than financial support. It has given me confidence, motivation, and access to learning opportunities that are not easily available at my college. Through the programme, I have gained valuable exposure, interacted with experts, and developed both personally and professionally. I am sincerely grateful to BASF and the Pune Knowledge Cluster for creating such a meaningful platform that empowers women scholars and supports their academic and professional growth.”
BASF India to Lead the Next Phase of WEnyan
BASF announced that the WEnyan programme will now be supported by BASF India Limited (BIL), ensuring the initiative continues to expand its reach and impact. With sustained industry support, stronger academic collaborations, and the launch of WESER, BASF is further strengthening its commitment to empowering women in STEM. As per the press release, together, these initiatives are expected to create greater opportunities for aspiring women scientists, promote inclusive innovation, and contribute to building a more diverse and future-ready scientific workforce in India.
