The underrepresentation of women in artificial intelligence poses a significant risk of embedding existing societal biases into future technologies, according to Himani Agrawal, Chief Partner Officer, Microsoft India and South Asia.
Agrawal emphasized that the lack of diversity in the AI field is not merely a numbers issue, but a critical factor in shaping the future. “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,” she stated in an interview.
Addressing the ‘Leaky Pipeline’
Agrawal underscores the importance of early interventions to encourage women to lead in AI. This includes inspiring young girls to pursue STEM fields, strengthening mentorship networks, and providing women with the necessary skills and leadership opportunities to influence AI advancements.
She believes these steps are crucial for addressing the “leaky pipeline,” where many women encounter obstacles to entering and sustaining careers in the tech industry. This issue is particularly concerning because AI is increasingly impacting key sectors like healthcare, finance, education, and employment. Biased data used to train AI models can inadvertently reinforce societal inequalities, creating a feedback loop that perpetuates discrimination.
Image showing a conceptual view of the future of work, representing a diverse workforce.
At Microsoft, approximately 31.6% of the core workforce comprises women, and the company is actively working to improve inclusion. Agrawal also highlighted the need for increased female representation in cybersecurity, a rapidly expanding field where women remain significantly underrepresented.
Breaking Barriers to Leadership
Agrawal believes the real challenge extends beyond simply recruiting women into the workforce; it’s about ensuring they thrive and progress. She noted that technology has the potential to be an equalizer, offering flexible careers, diverse roles, and numerous possibilities. However, the transition from mid-level positions to leadership roles remains a significant hurdle for many women.
“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,” she said.
Inclusion, she stressed, goes beyond mere representation; it requires reimagining workplaces to allow women to balance ambition and their personal lives. She advocates for a supportive ecosystem that provides mentorship and structured growth opportunities to help women confidently navigate their career milestones.
Digital Access as a Right
Agrawal also emphasized the importance of digital access and literacy. She suggested that expanding broadband infrastructure, integrating AI-powered learning platforms in schools, and promoting digital literacy from an early age could transform barriers into opportunities. She believes that providing women with digital tools and skills can enable them to launch businesses, access new markets, and build sustainable careers without the need to relocate.
Furthermore, she advocates for equitable workplaces where men actively participate in fostering inclusivity, serving as allies rather than passive observers.
