Empowering Women and Girls in Science: A Pathway to Sustainability
Discover how supporting women and girls in science leads to sustainability, gender equality, and a brighter future. Learn how global initiatives are breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
2025 marks February 11 as the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS) and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which are the two major milestones in the global push for gender equality and women’s empowerment. This day is a crucial reminder that women and girls play an essential role in science and technology, and their participation must be strengthened.
Bridging the Gender Gap in STEM
Despite remarkable progress, gender disparities persist in STEM fields. Women and girls still face systemic biases, stereotypes, and limited opportunities. As such, bridging this gap is crucial for global innovation and economic growth. Studies indicate that diverse teams drive more effective problem-solving and creativity, making gender inclusivity a critical component of progress and sustainability.
To close this gap, we must:
✔ Break stereotypes that deter girls from pursuing STEM careers.
✔ Promote role models to inspire the next generation.
✔ Support women’s professional growth through targeted programs and mentorship.
✔ Implement inclusive policies that drive diversity and equity in STEM workplaces.
Women and Girls in STEM: Leading the Change
Across the world, women have broken barriers and defied societal norms to excel in STEM. Their dedication and achievements continue to inspire future generations.However, in the ASEAN region, despite female students outperforming their male peers in mathematics and science, their academic success does not always translate into professional representation in STEM careers.
Key Challenges Women and Girls Face in STEM:
✔ Gender biases and stereotypes – Women often encounter societal expectations that discourage them from pursuing STEM careers.
✔ Limited career opportunities – Many industries still lack inclusive hiring and promotion policies.
✔ Workplace barriers – Challenges such as pay gaps, lack of mentorship, and career stagnation impact women’s growth.
✔ Underrepresentation in leadership roles – Women remain a minority in executive and decision-making positions in STEM fields.
The Policy Brief on Strengthening ASEAN Women’s Participation in STEM, developed under the ASEAN-USAID IGNITE project, provides key insights into these challenges. It reveals that:
✔ Women in ASEAN excel academically in STEM but remain underrepresented in professional STEM roles.
✔ Systemic barriers continue to limit women’s participation and advancement in STEM careers.
✔ Targeted programs and initiatives are needed to promote gender inclusivity in STEM fields.
Why This Matters:
- 90% of future jobs will require STEM skills, making gender inclusion in STEM essential for economic growth.
- Diverse STEM teams drive innovation and create better solutions for global challenges.
- Closing the gender gap in STEM fosters equality and paves the way for sustainable development.
Global Initiatives Supporting Women and Girls in STEM
Girls Who Can: COPIA Tech and ASSIST Asia’s Initiative
In 2023, COPIA Technologies, in partnership with ASSIST Asia, launched initiatives at Public Girls Higher Secondary School in Tamil Nadu, India, to equip students and teachers with essential skills. The program includes:
- i2Can Initiative – Offers upskilling programs, cyber wellness awareness, and innovative teaching methods.
- 123 Grow Initiative – Establishes school gardens as hands-on learning spaces, teaching sustainability and environmental responsibility.
WECF International’s Renewable Energy Initiative
The EU-funded project promotes gender equality in the renewable energy sector by:
✔ Showcasing case studies of women breaking barriers in renewable energy.
✔ Raising awareness of gender-sensitive policies and communication.
✔ Supporting women-led projects in Renewable Heating and Cooling (RHC) solutions.
With countries like Greece, Italy, Germany, Belgium, and Norway participating, this initiative ensures that women play a central role in sustainable energy transitions.
Moving Forward: Building a More Sustainable Future
Empowering women in STEM fuels sustainability and innovation. Increasing women’s participation in science and technology brings diverse perspectives, accelerates problem-solving, and leads to more inclusive solutions for global challenges. A sustainable future has gender equality at its core.
At ASSIST Asia, we are dedicated to fostering social progress through capacity building and sustainable transformation. Promoting diversity, breaking barriers, and ensuring equal opportunities help create a world where women can thrive in STEM and beyond.
Want to advance sustainability? Join us in championing women’s rights and gender equality in STEM.
Published on February 17, 2025
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