Women Take Center Stage in Brazil's 2026 National Science and Technology Week

The 23rd National Science and Technology Week (SNCT) in Brazil is highlighting the critical role of women in science through a series of nationwide events and activities focused on the theme 'Ciência Delas' (Science by Women). Running regionally from November 9 to 29, 2026, with a national culmination in Brasília, the celebrations showcase the scientific contributions of women and aim to inspire new generations.

In the North region, the Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (Inpa) is hosting a distinguished program from November 10 to 12 featuring over 40 activities such as exhibitions, workshops, games, lectures, and laboratory visits. These are primarily coordinated by female researchers, with topics including innovation from mushrooms, sustainability and leadership in stingless bee research, and herpetology’s biodiversity amidst climate change. Inpa’s vice-director, Sônia Sena Alfaia, highlighted the importance of acknowledging women’s achievements in science, noting that despite women comprising the majority in higher education according to Capes, they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. The event also includes a roundtable titled "Women in Science: Achievements and Challenges," promoting dialogue among prominent figures.

Parallel events in the Amazon region include the II Feira de Ciências da Amazônia Mato-grossense (II FECAM), held from November 9 to 13 across three municipalities. With an expected 2,000 student participants, this initiative aims to popularize science and foster investigative learning by showcasing itinerant scientific demonstrations and biological collections, all underlining women's scientific contributions.

Nationally, SNCT runs from November 24 to 29 with activities organized by schools, universities, and research institutes tailored to regional interests. Events across the Northeast to the South emphasize sustainability, interdisciplinary approaches, and youth engagement, consistently highlighting women's essential roles in science and striving for broader female participation in STEM fields.

The national closing event in Brasília promises interactive exhibits and discussions designed to engage the broader public with Brazilian scientific innovation, underscoring efforts to build a more diverse and inclusive scientific community. Izabela Fonseca Aleixo stressed that enhancing access to science for women and girls opens pathways to realizing dreams and expanding opportunities.

Overall, the 2026 SNCT not only celebrates women’s scientific achievements but also serves as a catalyst to reduce gender gaps in leadership and participation, fostering a more equitable future for Brazilian science.