The underrepresentation of women in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) poses a significant risk of perpetuating existing societal biases into future technologies, according to Himani Agrawal, chief partner officer for Microsoft India and South Asia.
Agrawal emphasizes that ensuring diverse perspectives in AI development is a shared responsibility. She argues that if AI continues to be shaped without this diversity, the biases present today will likely become firmly embedded in tomorrow’s technology.
“This isn’t just a number’s problem; it’s about the future we’re building. If AI is shaping the world, then the people shaping AI need to reflect the world’s diversity. Otherwise, the biases of today risk becoming hardwired into the technology of tomorrow,” Agrawal stated in a conversation with PTI.
To address this, Agrawal underscores the need for early intervention, including sparking curiosity in young girls, strengthening mentorship networks, and providing women with the necessary skills and leadership opportunities.
This holistic approach is intended to address the “leaky pipeline,” a phenomenon where retaining a career in the field can feel challenging for many women.
This is particularly important because AI is increasingly influencing various aspects of life, including healthcare, finance, education, and employment. An AI system trained with data that mirrors existing societal imbalances may perpetuate those imbalances, creating a cycle of bias.
She highlighted that women represent 31.6 percent of Microsoft’s core workforce, and the company is actively working towards better inclusion.
Greater female participation is especially critical in emerging fields like cybersecurity, where demand is high, but women remain underrepresented.
“The real challenge and opportunity lies in ensuring that women don’t just enter the workforce but thrive in it. Technology has the power to be an equaliser, offering flexible careers, diverse roles, and limitless possibilities. Yet, the crucial transition from mid-level to leadership remains a hurdle for many women. That’s where an inclusive culture makes all the difference,” Agrawal said.
Inclusion means cultivating a workplace where women don’t have to choose between career goals and work-life balance, and where mentorship and support systems empower them to navigate pivotal career moments confidently.
Agrawal believes that the future lies in creating environments where women are supported by mentorship, equal access, and a culture that values their contributions.
“True inclusion is about more than representation; it’s about reimagining the way work fits into women’s lives. When we get the formula right — when technology, policies, and workplace culture work in harmony — we unlock limitless potential.”
Agrawal also emphasized the need to ensure that digital access is considered a right, not a privilege. Expanding broadband infrastructure, integrating AI-driven learning platforms into schools, and promoting digital literacy from an early age can be transformative and turn limitations into opportunities.
With the correct digital tools and skills, women who once faced employment barriers can now start businesses, access new markets, and build sustainable careers without leaving their communities.
She called for creating an equitable workplace where men are active allies, not mere bystanders, and champion inclusion, challenge biases, and create inclusive spaces.
