WiTaR in Focus: Advancing Research and Pre-Standardisation Synergies in Emerging Technologies

Bridging the gap between research and standardisation is vital to shape Europe’s evolving landscape of connectivity. This year at Techritory Forum, two 6G-IA Working Groups – Women in Telecommunications and Research (WiTaR), together with the Pre-Standardisation Working Group – will explore how to build a stronger, more inclusive pipeline from R&D to standards in the emerging 6G landscape. This effort is co-ordinated with efforts from SNS JU funded project SNS CO-OP.

Gender equality in research and innovation has seen gradual improvements, with Horizon Europe reaching 45% women evaluators and over 51% women in expert and advisory groups. However, persistent gaps remain: women make up just 31% of Horizon Europe project coordinators and 38% of researchers, with sharp declines in representation at senior levels. In industry-driven areas such as telecommunications, women remain underrepresented in both research roles and leadership positions, especially within standardisation bodies (as stated in this report).

This session highlights the importance of addressing these imbalances, not only to meet EU values of inclusion and equality but also to ensure that the technology in making reflects the diversity of Europe’s society. Inclusive standardisation is essential for equitable access, ethical design, and the sustainability of 6G networks.

Join us as we bring together researchers, standardization experts, and diversity advocates to share insights, identify gaps, and chart a collaborative path forward.

We welcome:

• Forward thinkers to contribute in research and standardization;
• Researchers and innovators active in the SNS community;
• Policymakers and forward-thinkers striving to embed inclusivity in next-generation technology frameworks.

• Agenda:
  Welcome – 5min
  Speaker: Pooja Mohnani, Project Manager, Eurescom
• Video Address by SNS JU Executive director – Erzsebet Fitori – 10 min
• Overview of WiTaR’s working group, status and strategic relevance – 10 min
  Speaker: Pooja Mohnani, Project Manager, Eurescom
• Introduction to Pre-Standardisation Working Group & Status – (10 min) Speaker: Veronica Vuotto, Communication, Dissemination & Outreach Specialist, Trust-IT Services (Pre-Standardisation Working Group Co-Chair)

• Expert Insights: Driving Impact in Research and Standardization – 20 min

Two experts present case studies and perspectives:

• Talk 1: Role of Inclusion & Diversity in ETF: Challenges and Opportunities
  Speaker: Rute C. Sofia, leader of the European Task Force on 5G+/6G (5G+/6G-ETF)
• Talk 2: Inclusion in Standardisation: Lessons from Past Frameworks
  Speaker: Prachi Sachdeva (TNO)

• Panel Discussion: Women in Standardisation – Challenges & Opportunities – 30 min

A moderated dialogue exploring:

• Synergies between research and standard-setting
• Current barriers to inclusive collaboration
• Pathways for stakeholder alignment

Moderator: Uwe Herzog, Program manager, Eurescom

Panelists include:

• Didier Bourse, Director, European R&I Programs at Nokia
• Prachi Sachdeva, MSc, Senior Consultant, ICT, Strategy & Policy
• Hakima Chaouchi, Head of Digital Sovreignty and Sobriety at IMT,
  Expert from NGMN(TBC)
• Dr. Albena Mihovska (one6G Association, WG3 Chair)

• Wrap-Up & Next Steps – 5 min
  (Pooja Mohnani, Project Manager, Eurescom)
  Synthesis of key takeaways and future actions.