HPI: What are you researching at HPI, and why is your research topic personally important to you?
Arpita Kappattanavar: Exploring Affective Computing Approach to Support Healthy Eating Behaviors. I am deeply inspired by the Baháʼí Faith's teachings, particularly the teachings of Baháʼu'lláh, who stresses the importance of managing diseases through diet, avoiding habits leading to unhappiness, and addressing the root causes of illnesses. These principles guide my research into exploring how affective states impact eating behaviors. By focusing on this area, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution to serving mankind.
HPI: What do you see as the biggest barriers for girls and women in IT?
Arpita Kappattanavar: The glass ceiling significantly impedes career advancement in hiring, promotions, and evaluations, creating substantial obstacles to professional growth.
HPI: What do you wish for the future with regard to women in tech/IT? What kind of promotions or offers are needed to give young women the best possible support when entering the tech industry?
Arpita Kappattanavar: In envisioning the future of women in tech, it is important to recognize that men and women are like the two wings of a bird. To support young women entering the tech industry, we must cultivate an environment of equality, justice, and equity. Both men and women need training programs at the outset and should have technical and soft skills. These soft skills are needed for navigating the complexities of the workplace, advocating for justice, and articulating opinions and suggestions with confidence and tact. Initiatives like mentorship programs, women-centric scholarships, and internships can transform how we support young women in IT. These initiatives empower women with the necessary skills and knowledge and build networks of support and inspiration. Additionally, we need to foster an organizational culture that values and respects diverse opinions and contributions. This includes training all employees to recognize, respect, and encourage women's voices in technology. Leadership roles should be accessible to women, showcasing them as contributors, decision-makers, and innovators. Such visibility is needed to inspire the next generation of women in tech.