University of Sydney Gets $100 Million Boost to Support Women in STEM Australia
The University of Sydney has received a massive $100 million donation to help cover the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields in Australia.
The donation, made by the Khuda Family Foundation, is one of the largest in the university’s history. The sole purpose is to inspire and support more young women to take up STEM subjects in high school and pursue careers in the field.
Backing Women in STEM
Currently, only 15% of STEM jobs in Australia are held by women. The new program is designed to change that by starting early, through outreach efforts in public and private high schools across Western Sydney. These outreach programs will begin in July 2025, aiming to reach 40,000 students.
The initiative will also offer scholarships and mentoring to help young women continue their education in STEM and enter the workforce. The first group of scholars is expected to start their studies in 2027.
Who’s Behind the Donation?
The generous gift comes from Robin Khuda, founder of the tech company AirTrunk. In 2024, AirTrunk was sold to investment giant Blackstone for $24 billion, making it the largest data center deal globally and the biggest business transaction in Australia that year. Robin Khuda is now using part of that wealth to support long-term educational and social impact projects, starting with this STEM initiative.
A Step Toward Inclusion
The University of Sydney has a strong history of philanthropic support. They had raised over $1 billion from 64,000 donors worldwide since 2019. This new donation marks a significant step forward in promoting diversity and inclusion in Australia’s STEM sector.
Experts say that boosting diversity in science and tech leads to more innovation. Moreover, it will ensure better outcomes for companies and communities alike.
Quick Facts:
- Donation Amount: $100 million
- Donor: Khuda Family Foundation (Robin Khuda)
- Purpose: Encourage women to study and work in STEM
- Start of Outreach: July 2025
- Target Reach: 40,000 high school students
- First Scholarship Intake: 2027
- Current Female Representation in STEM: 15%
Stay tuned for more updates on STEM programs and education in Australia with the help of Asif Consulting.
