Globally, less than 25% of the energy workforce is made up of women; in technical and leadership areas, that figure is even lower. This underrepresentation limits not only the diversity of the sector, but also the innovation and sustainability of its solutions. A just and equitable energy transition seeks to ensure that the shift from fossil fuels to clean energy leaves no one behind, especially vulnerable communities or those who depend on traditional sectors. This implies not only technological change, but also social, economic and political transformations that promote climate justice, gender equity, community participation and an equitable distribution of benefits and opportunities.

The University of the Caribbean (UNICARIBE) reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development and social equity by actively joining the Impulsouth global network. This network works on climate action with a focus on capacity building of professionals, universities and institutions in countries of the Global South. Through courses, mentoring, research and collaborative networks, it promotes just climate solutions, with an emphasis on women’s leadership, gender and social equity.

UNICARIBE, through its CAYEI Research Center and the Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management and Renewable Energy, is part of this network along with universities and organizations in Africa, Latin America and Asia. Thus, it joins a movement that connects knowledge, women’s leadership and sustainable transformation. One of the most relevant objectives is to achieve a more inclusive and effective energy transition, highlighting that women’s participation is essential and their efforts must be recognized, supported and made visible at all levels of energy change.

UNICARIBE’s institutional representation is led by students Kamila Méndez and Diana Morales, from the Environmental Management and Renewable Energy program, who have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to energy equity, climate action and community development. Their participation is testimony to the transformative role of women in global sustainability processes.

Recently, the two students, together with teacher Víctor Haché and director Julián Peña, successfully completed the Training of Trainers in Just and Equitable Energy Transition course, offered by the United Nations University (UNU), the Avina Foundation, Canada’s IDRC and the Impulsouth global network. This program provides practical tools, social justice approaches and technical expertise to foster an energy transition that benefits all sectors of society, especially the most vulnerable.

With this participation, UNICARIBE consolidates its role as an academic agent of social transformation, training professionals aware of environmental impacts and committed to a more just, inclusive and sustainable energy. It is committed to education with purpose and international cooperation as pillars of a resilient future for the Dominican Republic and the planet.

If your organization would like to join this network, please see the website:
https://cop.impulsouth.org/

Authors:
Diana Lucia Morales – Student Environmental Management and Renewable Energies Lic.
Kamila Mendez – Student Environmental Management and Renewable Energies Lic.

Sources:
[1] F. Ros, “In energy, women hold only 22% of positions,” El Economista, Mar. 8, 2024. [Online]. Available at: https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/empresas/En-energia-mujeres-solo-ocupan-el-22-de-los-puestos-20240308-0006.html