On 22 November 2024, the Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization (CSAM) of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) co-organized the 3rd International Forum on Sci-Tech Empowering Rural Transformation at Yinhuang Farm, Changping District, Beijing, in collaboration with the China Offices of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the United Nations  Development Programme (UNDP), and the China Internet Information Center (CIIC).

The forum was attended by representatives from government agencies, research and educational institutions, the private sector, and international organizations to highlight the pivotal role of women in agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship. It showcased the transformative potential of science and technology in fostering sustainable and inclusive development in rural China emphasizing women’s contributions as leaders, innovators, and changemakers in advancing agriculture from traditional practices to modern operations. The forum also called for actionable steps to improve women’s access to innovative technologies and practices, strengthen capacity building and training programmes, and ensure equitable resource distribution to support the full participation of women in rural development.

At the forum, the 2024 Sci-Tech Empowering Rural Transformation Thematic Study Report: HER Power, HER Stories was officially unveiled. This report, a collaborative effort by the forum's organizers, features 17 inspiring stories and case studies from across China. It underscores women’s leadership in driving rural transformation through the adoption of innovative technologies and practices, with a special focus on digital mechanization, precision agriculture, agri-business, financial empowerment, and South-South cooperation.

A panel discussion was also featured at the forum, bringing together voices from the private sector, research institutions, universities, and international organizations. Panelists shared compelling evidence of women’s innovation and entrepreneurship in leveraging cutting-edge and innovative technologies to deliver creative solutions for improving agricultural production, operations, and value chain development. The discussion highlighted that women are the key driving force for advancements in agriculture and rural transformation, achievements that are only possible through their active engagement, ingenuity, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit.