RGU and British Council awards scholarships to inspiring Latin American women

The programme aims to increase opportunities in the field for women who need financial support and want to inspire future generations to choose careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. According to data from the UN Scientific Education and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), only 30% of female students select STEM-related fields in higher education.

The successful candidates from Brazil, Mexico and Peru were selected from over 280 applications and are pursuing their academic ambitions at a Scottish university for the first time. The Scholarships provide support, not only for study but also for living and transport expenses, with each one worth £35,000.  The students are studying for master's in Analytical Sciences, Biomedical Technology, Cyber Security, IT with Business Intelligence, Solar Energy Systems and Public Health and Health Promotion.

As part of their courses, the students are also working on STEM projects to positively impact their home countries, applying the skills and experience gained from their time at RGU. Donella Beaton, Vice-Principal for Business and Economic Development at RGU, commented: “We are delighted to participate in the British Council’s Scholarship programme for Women in STEM and be the only Scottish University to receive Latin American students through this programme.  RGU has been working with partners in Latin America for some time and these scholarships are a real milestone in this journey.

“We, at RGU, particularly applaud the women themselves who have all done amazing things in their own country before they came here. I am sure that they will not only be an asset to their own countries on their return but will also have a real impact on RGU’s community."

Sheila Stephani Juárez Castillo, who joined RGU from Peru to study for a MSc in Analytical Science - Food Analysis, Authenticity and Safety, said: "As a first-generation scholar and the first female engineer in my extended family, studying a master’s abroad has been a long-standing goal. At RGU, I have access to state-of-the-art equipment, facilities and a wide range of techniques that are instrumental in preparing me to lead projects that bring social and economic development to my country.

"Earning this scholarship is a milestone in my professional career as a female scientist. This degree will not only help me address health and nutrition in underprivileged sectors while mentoring young girls to pursue a science-related career but is also a golden opportunity to learn from fellow women in the industry."

Sandra Martínez Domínguez, from Mexico, who is studying a MSc in Information Technology with Business Intelligence, said: "I chose RGU because it allowed me to pursue a master's in a field that is not directly related to my previous academic experience. Not every university offers you that possibility, so this is a life-defining moment that will boost my prospects as a chemical engineer and help me represent female interests in the industry.

"According to Girls Who Code, although 74% of middle school girls express interest in STEM topics, only 0.4% pursue them in college. As a British Council scholar, I can now change that by becoming a role model, not just for the girls in my family, most of which have since decided on a career in STEM, but for the wider community. Regardless of our sex, age, race, education, or family status, I want women to know we can do anything we set our minds to."