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UNESCO and L’Oréal Honor Four Young Indonesian Scientists with the 2024 Women in Science Award
On November 11, UNESCO Jakarta, the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO, and the L’Oréal Foundation celebrated four Indonesian women scientists recognized for their scientific achievements in advancing food security, promoting environmentally friendly energy production, and enhancing disaster risk reduction in urban areas.
For over 26 years, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science (FWIS) program has supported and recognized talented women scientists at different stages of their careers around the globe. FWIS has spanned its network of strong community of more than 4400 women in science, including 7 Nobel Prize winners, in 110 Countries.
In Indonesia, this year marks the 21st anniversary of FWIS present in the country, where the program has so far supported 75 women researchers from over 31 scientific institutions and universities.
The 2024 FWIS Indonesia awardees were chosen by an independent jury chaired by Prof. Herawati Sudoyo, consisting of eight esteemed Indonesian researchers and professors.
The 2024 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Indonesia Awardees:
Rachma Wikandari, S.T.P., M.Biotech., Ph.D. (Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta): Dr. Wikandari’s research focuses on creating a protein- and mineral-rich plant-based food using filamentous fungi (Rhizopus oligosporus). This innovation repurposes tempeh production waste, contributing to the circular economy while addressing stunting and nutritional deficiencies in Indonesia through fortified, affordable vegan diets.
Della Rahmawati, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. (Swiss German University, Tangerang): Dr. Rahmawati has developed an iron-rich kelakai (Stenochlaena palustris)-based nori sprinkle and a non-soy tempeh to enhance maternal and child nutrition. Her work supports food security and combats stunting, contributing to public health improvement in Indonesia.
Prasanti Widyasih Sarli, Ph.D. (Institut Teknologi Bandung): Dr. Sarli is recognized for her AI-driven research on assessing earthquake vulnerability in urban buildings. Her work aids the government in designing disaster-resistant buildings, reducing the risks and casualties associated with seismic events.
Deliana Dahnum, Ph.D. (Research Center for Chemistry, BRIN): Dr. Dahnum’s research on bio-jet fuel from coconut using metal-organic framework (MOF) catalysts is advancing sustainable aviation fuel production. This eco-friendly innovation promotes carbon reduction, strengthens Indonesia’s connectivity, and harnesses local resources for sustainable economic growth.
In celebrating these remarkable researchers, UNESCO reiterates its commitment to closing the gender gap in science. Through its “Call to Action: closing the gender gap in science,” UNESCO aims to inspire young girls, promote female role models, and build inclusive, equitable work environments that empower women at every stage of their scientific careers.
As we start the (2024-2033), the outstanding work of these Indonesian woman scientists exemplifies how local, context-driven and inclusive research can address local challenges, improve quality of lives, and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
UNESCO is proud to support these talented women as role models, inspiring the next generation of young girls in Indonesia and neighboring countries to pursue careers in science and create innovative solutions for a sustainable future for all.
