From a young age, many girls are attracted to the big questions of the universe. They dream of becoming astronauts, chemists, engineers, or researchers. In other words, they dream of changing the world, but the world doesn’t always allow them to. Many of these big aspirations collide with reality: the percentage of women enrolled in the STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is 42%, compared to 58% of men, according to an article from the Complutense University of Madrid.
In other words, ‘only 16% of professionals in the STEM fields are women,’ states this article. This gender gap presents a serious problem in higher education.
However, although the situation has been improving in recent years, the truth is that these women and girls still have to fight to establish a place for themselves in the world of science. Sometimes, even from the very beginning of their scientific careers.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science has the main mission of promoting full access and equitable participation of women and girls in science. To achieve this, the aim is to highlight the work of women in this field, with the goal of creating current female role models for girls. Having role models inspires and encourages them to choose scientific careers, if that is what they truly desire.
On the other hand, during this day, the factors affecting women working in STEAM fields are also highlighted, in order to make decisions that will help achieve gender equality in this area. Some of the challenges faced by women scientists include gender discrimination and bias in male-dominated fields, as well as the work-family balance.
However, it is in the hands of each one of us to improve this situation. We can achieve this by showing support for women scientists through the creation of inclusive work environments free of gender bias and offering mentoring and networking opportunities, especially for girls. In this way, young girls will be able to meet and speak directly with prominent female role models in science.
Moreover, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women scientists at all levels. This includes highlighting their contributions in conferences, academic publications, and the media. Also, to provide awards and recognitions that value their work and impact on society.
The influence of science education
At Casvi International American School, we are aware of the importance of providing female role models in the scientific field. By sharing the stories of successful female scientists with our students, we show them that they can also achieve great accomplishments in fields such as biology, physics, computer science, and engineering.
It is essential to encourage curiosity about exploring scientific careers from an early age, both in boys and girls. However, due to the significant gap that exists, it is crucial to support the participation of girls in these fields in order to promote diversity and innovation.
Therefore, in the classroom, we must go beyond mathematics and provide students with role models from different disciplines.
For these reasons, at our school, we organize Science Week every year, where our students share their science projects or experiments with their classmates and families.
With this mission, our school welcomes visits from several professionals, both men and women, with the aim of inspiring our students. Experts in fields such as art, literature, science, security, and sports share their experiences with them. These professionals advise the students, share their knowledge, but most importantly, they inspire. In addition, our students receive support from our Guidance Department when making academic and career decisions.
At Casvi International American School, we take advantage of this special date to highlight the achievements of women scientists and promote the empowerment of our students.
