The importance of women and girls in science cannot be understated. Women and girls bring unique perspectives and skills to scientific research and development, often leading to ground-breaking discoveries and innovations. Sadly, women and girls are often underrepresented and excluded from the scientific community due to pervasive gender discrimination. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a chance to celebrate the progress that has been made in increasing women and girls’ access to science and STEM fields, and to recognize the need for further action to ensure full and equal access.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science: History
February 11th marks the annual International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day was established by the United Nations in 2015 to recognize the important role women and girls play in science and technology, and to promote their full and equal access to and participation in these fields.
The United Nations has always prioritized gender equality. Women’s empowerment and gender equality will make a crucial contribution not only to economic development but also to progress across all the goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
On 14 March 2011, the Commission on the Status of Women adopted a report at its fifty-fifth session with agreed conclusions on the access and participation of women and girls in education, training, science, and technology, and on the promotion of equal access for women to full employment and decent employment. A resolution on science, technology, and innovation for development was adopted by the General Assembly on 20 December 2013. The resolution recognized the importance of equal access and participation in science, technology, and innovation for women and girls of all ages in achieving gender equality and empowerment.
Read More: Important Days and Dates in February 2023
International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Significance
On this day, organizations and governments around the world are encouraged to take action to promote the participation of women and girls in science. This can include support for increased access to educational opportunities and resources, better mentorship and networking opportunities, and active recruitment of women and girls for STEM positions. It is also important to ensure that women and girls have a safe and supportive environment to participate in science and engineering. This means addressing and preventing gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence, and providing resources and support to survivors.