• 11 Feb 2025

Science and technology play a crucial role in the development of society. However, for many years, gender inequality has prevented women and girls from fully realizing their potential in scientific fields. To address this issue and promote solutions, the United Nations (UN) declared February 11th as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day serves as an opportunity to highlight the role of women in science, encourage their participation in scientific fields, and combat gender disparities.

Gender Inequality in Science and Its Solutions

Statistics show that, on a global scale, women's representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) remains significantly lower than that of men. According to UNESCO, women make up only 30-35% of researchers worldwide. The reasons for this gap include gender stereotypes, social pressures, and limited opportunities for female scientists.

To address this issue, many countries and organizations have implemented various initiatives. Organizations such as UN Women, UNESCO, and the European Union, as well as individual universities and scientific institutions, are developing programs to encourage women to pursue STEM education and engage in scientific research.

Sustainable Development Goals and the Role of Women in Science

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize gender equality (SDG 5) and quality education (SDG 4) as key priorities. Integrating women and girls into science not only ensures their rights but also accelerates innovation and development.

For example, in fields such as climate change (SDG 13), healthcare (SDG 3), and technological advancements, female scientists contribute significantly to building a better future for humanity. Notable figures include Nobel Prize-winning scientist Marie Curie, computer science pioneer Ada Lovelace, space research mathematician Katherine Johnson, and many other female scientists working on climate change research.

The Role of Universities and Educational Institutions

Higher education institutions play a crucial role in fostering women's interest in scientific fields. Universities can:

• Establish mentorship and scholarship programs for female students in STEM fields.
• Share success stories of women scientists to inspire younger generations.
• Organize scientific conferences and seminars to promote gender equality.

By celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we emphasize the importance of women's role in science and take a step toward building a more equitable and inclusive future. Science is for everyone, and the active participation of women in this field is essential for ensuring sustainable development.

Let’s support gender equality in science and inspire more girls to pursue careers in STEM!