First French female astronaut in space advises students to pursue science

(NLDO)- From her story, Ms. Claudie Haigneré - the first French female astronaut to fly into space - encourages students to pursue science and technology.

The French Institute in Ho Chi Minh City in collaboration with the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam (CCIFV) recently organized the workshop “Inspiring Women - Multidimensional Perspectives on Leadership, Science and Innovation”. The event attracted a large number of managers, students, businessmen... to participate.

Speakers discussed enthusiastically about female leadership and promoting diversity in science and technology . Photo: VAN NHI

Speaking at the conference, Claudie Haigneré, the first French female astronaut to fly into space, emphasized that diversity is a key factor in promoting science and innovation, in which women play an important role, no less than men.

With a rich scientific and political experience, she has spent her life fighting for international cooperation in the field of space, as well as encouraging young people – especially girls – to enter science and technology.

“It is diversity that has helped me overcome many different fields, from medicine, science to space. Gender difference is not a barrier, but a valuable asset,” the French astronaut affirmed.

Looking back on her journey from university teaching to diplomatic activities, Ms. Ton Nu Thi Ninh, former Vietnamese Ambassador to the European Union and the Kingdom of Belgium, affirmed that Vietnamese women have enough strength and determination to take on any field, including science and technology.

During Ms. Claudie Haigneré's visit to Vietnam, the French Institute in Vietnam, in collaboration with partners, organized a series of seminars, talks and public meetings in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: VAN NHI

Astronaut Claudie Haigneré before flying into space. File photo

According to Ms. Ton Nu Thi Ninh, female leaders in the high-tech industry have many initiatives to promote inclusion and social responsibility.

At the program, Ms. Hoang Tri Mai, Airbus Representative Director in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, and Thales Group representative also shared interesting information about mentorship programs, training female leaders and promoting a diverse working environment, emphasizing the role of cooperation and differences in businesses.

Claudie Haigneré is a rheumatologist, researcher and the first French female astronaut to fly in space (flights in 1996 and 2001).

She served as Minister for Research (2002–2004), then as Minister for European Affairs (2004–2005).

Source: https://nld.com.vn/nu-phi-hanh-gia-phap-dau-tien-bay-vao-vu-tru-khuyen-sinh-vien-dan-than-vao-khoa-hoc-196250926102920549.htm