Cognizant launches Shakti initiative to advance women leadership in tech; Know the key details

US-based technology company Cognizant has launched Shakti, a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing women's roles in technology.

With this initiative, the company aims to promote diversity and inclusion within the growing technology sector. The company said Shakti encompasses various women-centric programs and policies.

Partnership with NASSCOM for D&I

Cognizant has partnered with NASSCOM to establish and prioritize best practices, aiming to make diversity and inclusion a hallmark of India's tech industry. 

Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant, emphasizes the importance of this partnership, stating, "Shakti will catalyze our efforts to enable more women to advance their careers and reach their full potential. Growth, innovation, and client-centricity all require a diverse and inclusive workforce, doubly so as generative AI permeates the workplace. We will see the most essential human skill shift from problem-solving to problem-finding, putting a premium on cognitive diversity.

Women's representation in Cognizant

Cognizant claims it has nearly 40% female representation among its associates in India, surpassing the national average of 36% in the IT sector.

More than half of 13 Cognizant centers in the country have crossed over 40% in their women workforce, with two of the largest centres being currently led by women leaders, the company said in a release.

Shakti's comprehensive programs

Shakti aims to consolidate and enhance existing women-centric initiatives under one umbrella. Key programs include RISE, a leadership development program for mid-level women associates; Propel, focusing on senior-level women's career acceleration; Returnship, a 12-week paid program for those re-entering the workforce; and Be Gritty, which trains new campus hires.

Additionally, Cognizant has introduced a company-wide allyship program to address workplace challenges and biases faced by women.

Creating an inclusive workplace for women 

Cognizant is also launching a year-long campaign to showcase its long-term dedication to creating an inclusive workplace for women. The campaign will feature real-life stories of women's contributions and successes.

The company believes in the critical role of leadership engagement and accountability in driving and assessing the impact of these diversity and inclusion policies.

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