Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) are crucial to economic growth – yet gender inequality in these fields remains widespread.
“Despite the progress, women still make up only one-third of the global scientific community and face significant barriers in funding, publishing and leadership roles in STEM,” said Secretary-General António Guterres in his message for the day. As the world marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, the need to remove these barriers is more urgent than ever.
Education is key to achieving gender equality in STEM, yet 122 million girls worldwide are currently out of school, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Even for those who receive formal education, gender stereotypes and societal expectations discourage many from pursuing scientific careers.
At the 10th anniversary celebration, President of the General Assembly, H.E. Philémon Yang, emphasised the need for action: “As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies reshape the economy, women and girls must have the skills to seize these opportunities.”
He pointed out that progress has stalled over the past decade, with only 15 percent of young female graduates choosing STEM disciplines, compared to 35 percent of their male peers.
