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PT_BR 
Nextracker and Solar Energy International announced a partnership to launch a global scholarship program to support women entering the solar energy workforce.
Called “Half the Sun,” the scholarship is inspired by Pulitzer Prize winner Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn’s book, Half the Sky, which tells stories of challenges that turned into opportunities.
In the understanding of both companies, women continue to be underrepresented in the solar industry, despite there being a consensus that a diverse workplace makes perfect sense for smart business.
According to the latest study released by IRENA (National Renewable Energy Agency), women account for just 28% of science, technology, engineering or mathematics jobs in the global solar industry.
The program's perspective is to be able to encourage an increase in female and non-binary participation for 50% in the next decade.
To this end, for three years the program will provide ten students with a full scholarship for a six-week solar training course. The project includes financial assistance for candidates seeking education in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
There will be two scholarships for the following continents: Europe, the United States, the MEIAT region (Middle East, Africa, India and Turkey); Australia and Asia-Pacific; and Latin America.
To participate, women and non-binary individuals must have earned a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) or a related concentration.
From the date the awards are announced, fellows will have access to regional members of the network Nextracker Women's Network with the aim of guaranteeing and continuing your career, building your network and providing individual guidance.
The beneficiaries will also have access to the network of professionals to bridge professional placement in the solar sector, as well as a platform to discuss and share experiences in the workplace, ranging from the challenges of carrying out their duties during motherhood in their roles to gender imbalances in the workplace.
