International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Empowering Women and Girls in STEM

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a global event that aims to promote the participation of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This day is crucial in recognizing the critical role women and girls play in advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. By celebrating their achievements, we can inspire future generations to pursue careers in STEM.

Breaking Down Barriers

Despite making up half of the world's population, women and girls are underrepresented in STEM fields. This day serves as a call to action to address the systemic barriers and biases that prevent them from fully participating in these fields. By promoting gender equality and providing opportunities for women and girls to excel, we can create a more diverse and inclusive scientific community.

Celebrating Achievements

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an opportunity to celebrate the groundbreaking contributions of women scientists and innovators throughout history. From Marie Curie to Rosalind Franklin, women have played a vital role in shaping our understanding of the world. This day is a tribute to their achievements and a reminder of the importance of promoting gender equality in STEM.

A United Nations Initiative

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The resolution was adopted to promote the empowerment of women and girls in science, recognizing the critical role they play in achieving sustainable development goals. The day is celebrated on February 11th every year, coinciding with the birthday of Maria Gaetana Agnesi, an Italian mathematician and philosopher.

Addressing the Gender Gap

The origins of this day can be traced back to the realization that women and girls are underrepresented in STEM fields. Despite making up half of the world's population, they hold less than 30% of research and development positions. This day aims to address this gender gap by promoting gender equality and providing opportunities for women and girls to excel in STEM.

A Global Movement

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science has become a global movement, with organizations, governments, and individuals coming together to promote gender equality in STEM. The day is marked by events, conferences, and campaigns that highlight the achievements of women scientists and innovators, as well as provide opportunities for girls and women to engage with STEM fields.

How to Celebrate

Celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by organizing events, workshops, or campaigns that promote gender equality in STEM. Invite women scientists and innovators to share their experiences and inspire future generations. Use social media to raise awareness about the importance of promoting women and girls in STEM.

Get Involved

Participate in events and activities that promote STEM education and career opportunities for women and girls. Collaborate with organizations and individuals working towards gender equality in STEM. Share your own story or the story of a woman scientist who has inspired you.

Educate Yourself

Take the opportunity to learn about the achievements of women scientists and innovators throughout history. Read about the challenges they faced and the contributions they made to their respective fields. Educate yourself about the systemic barriers and biases that prevent women and girls from fully participating in STEM fields.

Stereotyping: Avoid stereotyping women and girls as being less capable in STEM fields.

• Bias: Recognize and address unconscious bias in STEM education and career opportunities.
• Exclusion: Avoid excluding women and girls from STEM-related activities and events.
• Lack of Representation: Ensure that women and girls are represented in STEM-related media and advertising.
• Stereotypical Portrayal: Avoid stereotypical portrayals of women scientists and innovators in media and popular culture.