Chris Infotainment

Recognition of Leadership and Vision Vidyani Hettigoda, the Director of the Hettigoda Group of Companies, has been honored as one of the Sri Lankan Top 100 Iconic Women 2025 at the SLBC Centenary Awards. The event took place on August 29 at the BMICH, celebrating her remarkable contributions to business and society. With over three decades of experience, Vidyani has played a crucial role in transforming the family-owned enterprise into a global well-being brand. Under her guidance, Siddhalepa has expanded its presence to more than 40 countries, offering a diverse range of Ayurvedic products and services. Her vision has helped position Ayurveda as a respected and sought-after wellness solution worldwide. Beyond her professional achievements, Vidyani is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and entrepreneurship. She has mentored numerous rural women, providing them with the tools and support needed to become successful entrepreneurs. Her efforts have not only empowered ind...

The Intersection of AI and Gender Inequality In an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global workforce, a troubling pattern emerges: women's bodies often become the ultimate sites for the exertion of force by men. This issue has gained urgency as AI replaces human labor in various sectors, leading to widespread job displacement and societal upheaval. As machines and algorithms take over tasks once performed by humans, the structure of labor is being redefined, and with it, the dynamics of power and vulnerability. Historically, during times of societal disruption, women have often borne the brunt of instability. Whether due to colonization, pandemics, or technological advancements that rendered certain skills obsolete, the consequences have frequently fallen heavily on women. These periods, while distinct in their causes, share a common outcome: the redirection of male frustration and disempowerment toward women. This phenomenon highlights a deep-rooted patter...

A New Era in Nepali Kitchens In the small village of Birendra Bazar, located in Ganeshman Charnath Municipality of Dhanusha, a quiet transformation is taking place. On a hot afternoon, 28-year-old Archana Kumari Mahara steps into her kitchen, where a shiny new induction stove sits on the counter. The aroma of sizzling potato snacks fills the air as she prepares a meal in just minutes. For her, this is more than just a modern appliance—it’s a symbol of liberation. For years, Archana used a smoky mud stove, which filled her home with harmful fumes and forced her to spend hours collecting firewood. She recalls the constant coughing, the soot-covered walls, and the difficulty of getting meals ready on time. Now, with the induction stove, her life has changed dramatically. Cooking is faster, safer, and more efficient. She no longer has to worry about the dangers of smoke or the hassle of gathering firewood. Despite the benefits, not everyone in the community has embraced the change. Thal...

Understanding the Challenges of Women's Participation in Science, Innovation, and Technology A recent study conducted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Science and Technology Policy Research Institute (CSIR-STEPRI) has highlighted a significant gap in the participation of women in Science, Innovation, and Technology (STI) research. This issue is particularly evident in research institutions across various sectors, including public and private organizations. The findings were shared during a policy dialogue focused on women's involvement in STI research, capacity-building, and mentorship, which took place in Accra. The study aimed to identify both the barriers and the enablers that influence the career progression of individuals working in scientific research environments. Key Barriers Identified in the Study One of the primary challenges identified was the unequal access to well-resourced laboratories and research tools. This disparity limited the abilit...

Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Technology Telecel Ghana recently hosted a special event that brought together 100 girls from various primary and junior high schools across the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions. This gathering was part of the National Girls-in-ICT Open Day initiative, an important step toward encouraging more women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The initiative is aimed at addressing the gender gap in these critical fields by providing young girls with hands-on experience and exposure to technology-driven environments. The open day was organized as part of a nationwide program focused on fostering inclusivity in STEM. It offered participants the opportunity to explore technology workplaces, interact with professionals, and gain practical insights into various STEM disciplines. This kind of engagement is essential for inspiring young minds and helping them envision themselves in these roles. The event kicked o...

Empowering Women Through Digital Skills: A New Era for Rural Communities In a significant move toward digital inclusion and gender equality, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a Training of Trainers (ToT) program focused on digital skills for women in rural communities. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Government of Liberia and various partners, marks a crucial step in equipping women with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the modern digital economy. The program was officially launched on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the Liberia Chamber of Commerce in Monrovia. The event brought together representatives from multiple sectors, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, ECOWAS Commission, the Liberia Chamber of Commerce, and technical partners. This collective effort underscores a shared commitment to advancing digital inclusion and fostering sustainable development across underserved regions. A Vision for Inclusive...