Abstract

The Empower HER Advancing Women in STEM Higher Education and Careers project a collaborative initiative within the Going Global Partnerships program funded by the British Council aims to tackle gender inequality in STEM fields by empowering women graduates and fostering inclusivity. Through skill development, resource provision and networking opportunities the project seeks to equip women in STEM with the tools to overcome barriers and excel in their careers. Empower HER is designed to address critical challenges while driving innovation and economic growth. By expanding the talent pool in STEM the project stimulates technological advancement and enhances Egypts global competitiveness. A significant focus is placed on narrowing the gender income gap and improving financial stability for women contributing to economic development attracting investment and strengthening domestic industries. The project also emphasizes community development by extending its activities to underprivileged areas through STEM education programs reducing poverty and improving social welfare. Empower HER aims to enhance research and development in critical sectors like healthcare agriculture, and renewable energy, benefiting Egyptian citizens and boosting quality of life. Internationally Empower HER fosters cross cultural collaboration between the University of Central Lancashire UC Lan UK and the Arab Academy for Science Technology and Maritime Transport AASTMT Egypt. This partnership promotes global understanding empowers women professionals and drives innovative solutions to global challenges. By supporting women graduates in STEM the project contributes to a diverse and skilled workforce enhancing creativity problem solving and competitiveness across industries. Empower HER represents a transformative step toward gender equality innovation and community development with its success contingent on effective implementation and the collective support of government academia and the private sector https://aast.edu/en/sdg/empowerher/index.php