On February 11, the world comes together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Despite this milestone, significant gender disparities persist in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said, “Today is International Day of Women and Girls in Science, and I’d like to take the opportunity to recognise the importance of encouraging greater gender diversity in STEM careers.”
“In 2024, women represented only 15% of all Australians working in STEM, highlighting the ongoing need to improve equity,” Mr Whan said.
Closing the gap in the Snowy Mountains, are passionate STEM educators like Chrissy Graham, head of the STEM Accadamy for Excellence at Cooma North Public school.
PHOTO: Cooma North Public school girls enjoying STEM based lessons with Chrissy Graham.
It is crucial to encourage girls early in their education to develop an interest in STEM and related fields, Chrissy Graham said.
“Research shows that by the time students reach high school, they have already formed their academic interests and beliefs about their abilities. Nurturing this curiosity from a young age is key to inspiring more girls to pursue careers in STEM—fields that will shape the future.”
Chrissy went on to acknowledge the importance of days like The International Day of Women and Girls in STEM.
“Days like today, highlight the achievements of women and girls who are breaking barriers and challenging outdated beliefs about their place in STEM.”
“It is crucial to provide young girls with inspiring role models who show them that they, too, can succeed in these fields.”
According to the United Nations, a significant gender gap has persisted at all levels of STEM disciplines all over the world. Even though women have made tremendous progress towards increasing their participation in higher education, they are still under-represented in these fields.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the critical importance of gender equality in science: “On the tenth anniversary of this important day, and as we reflect on 30 years since the Beijing Declaration, let’s help pave a path to STEM careers that women and girls deserve – and our world needs.”
“Women and girls belong in science, and their inclusion fosters innovation. Let’s help pave a path to STEM careers that women and girls deserve – and our world needs,” Mr Guterres said.