chatter matter
In a world where the space sector continues to expand at remarkable speed, questions of access, representation and opportunity have become increasingly central. As governments and institutions invest in exploration and innovation, attention has steadily shifted toward ensuring that young women are not left at the margins of this evolving frontier.
Against this backdrop, a landmark Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the Vienna International Centre between the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Dawood Global Foundation through its Ladiesfund Educate a Girl initiative. The agreement was formalised during a high-level side event held on the margins of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS), a two-week summit focused on advancing global cooperation in space governance.
UNOOSA promotes international cooperation in the peaceful uses and exploration of outer space and works to ensure that space science and technology contribute to sustainable development and benefit all countries. The signing also coincided with the concluding phase of the Space4Women Landmark Study on Gender Equality in the Space Sector (2024–2026), a three-year initiative supported by the Republic of Korea to assess and advance gender equality across the global space ecosystem. The foundation involved has long worked in education, mentorship and leadership development for women, with its platform supporting access to scholarships and professional pathways.
The MoU establishes a structured framework for cooperation to facilitate internships and professional development opportunities for young women from Pakistan and other countries pursuing careers in the space sector. It aims to expand pathways into science, technology, engineering, research and leadership roles, strengthening long-term participation of women in global space ecosystems.
Opening the event, Aarti Holla-Maini, Director of UNOOSA, welcomed participants from governments, space agencies, academia and international organisations. During the signing ceremony, she stated, “We are most happy to sign the MoU which contributes to the objective of increasing training and professional opportunities for young women aspiring to a career in the space sector”.
The ceremony was held before a full-house audience in M3 of the Vienna International Centre and marked a key outcome of the Space4Women initiative’s final phase, focused on measurable progress toward gender equality in space.
International engagement was also evident with the presence of Gunhee Park, Deputy Director of the International Affairs Division of the Korean Aerospace Administration (KASA), Dr Gay Jane P. Perez, Director General of the Philippine Space Agency and Brazilian Space Agency representative Márcia Alvarenga.
The agreement stands as a significant step forward in expanding global access to the space sector, reinforcing a shared commitment to inclusion, education and international collaboration that points toward a more equitable future beyond Earth.
- You! desk
