The United Nations General Assembly has instituted the International Day of Women and Girls in Science as a yearly observance to champion the complete and equitable involvement of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) domains. Resolution 70/212, adopted on December 22, 2015, officially designates the 11th day of February each year for this commemoration. An annual theme is chosen to spotlight specific areas of focus and discussions concerning gender equality in science.

Origin and History

• Establishment: The United Nations General Assembly declared February 11th as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in December 2015. The resolution was spearheaded by UNESCO and UN-Women to address the gender gap in science and technology fields.

• Purpose: The day aims to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. It highlights the need for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in STEM disciplines.

Importance and Objectives

• Promoting Gender Equality: The day emphasizes the importance of achieving gender equality in science and technology, fields historically dominated by men. It seeks to break down the barriers that women and girls face in STEM careers.

• Encouraging Participation: By celebrating the contributions of women scientists and encouraging more girls to pursue STEM education and careers, the day aims to increase the representation of women in these fields.

• Addressing Challenges: The observance raises awareness about the challenges women and girls face in STEM, including gender biases, stereotypes, lack of support, and unequal opportunities.

Activities and Celebrations

• Educational Programs: Schools, universities, and educational organizations hold workshops, seminars, and webinars to inspire and educate girls about the opportunities in STEM fields. These programs often include role models and guest speakers who are successful women in science.

• Community Events: Science fairs, exhibitions, and public lectures are organized to showcase the achievements of women scientists and the importance of their work. These events also provide networking opportunities for aspiring female scientists.

• Media Campaigns: Social media and traditional media campaigns are launched to highlight the stories and contributions of women in science. Hashtags like #WomenInScience and #GirlsInSTEM are used to spread awareness and encourage participation.

• Awards and Recognition: Various organizations and institutions may present awards and scholarships to outstanding women and girls in science, recognizing their contributions and potential.

Global Impact and Significance

• Inspiring Future Generations: By showcasing the achievements of women in science, the day aims to inspire the next generation of female scientists, engineers, and technologists, encouraging them to pursue their interests and careers in STEM.

• Policy Advocacy: The day provides a platform for advocating policies and initiatives that support gender equality in STEM education and careers. It emphasizes the need for systemic changes to create an inclusive and supportive environment for women and girls.

• Research and Data Collection: Organizations use the day to release reports and data on the status of women and girls in science, highlighting progress and areas needing improvement. This information is crucial for developing targeted interventions and policies.

Challenges Faced by Women and Girls in Science

• Gender Bias and Stereotypes: Persistent stereotypes about gender roles in science and technology discourage many girls from pursuing these fields. Biases in education and hiring practices further hinder their progress.

• Lack of Role Models: The underrepresentation of women in STEM means fewer role models for young girls. This lack of visible representation can deter girls from aspiring to STEM careers.

• Work-Life Balance: Balancing professional and personal responsibilities remains a significant challenge for women in science, impacting their career progression and opportunities for leadership roles.

• Funding and Resources: Women scientists often face disparities in funding, resources, and support compared to their male counterparts, affecting their research opportunities and career advancement.

Conclusion

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a vital observance that celebrates the achievements of women in science and promotes gender equality in STEM fields. By addressing the barriers women and girls face and encouraging their participation in science, the day contributes to creating a more inclusive and diverse scientific community. Through educational programs, advocacy, and recognition of female scientists, the observance aims to inspire and empower the next generation of women in STEM, ensuring that their contributions are valued and their potential is fully realized.