Every February 11th, people worldwide honor the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS). It’s a day to recognize the significant achievements of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). While we celebrate their contributions, it’s also important to address the ongoing gender gap in these fields.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024
Every year on February 11th, the United Nations celebrates the ‘International Day of Women and Girls in Science’ to highlight the need for gender equality in the scientific field. Recognized since 2015, this day emphasizes the significant contributions of women and girls to science and aims to encourage their equal participation in STEM fields worldwide.
This month, SIGBI will join in empowering women and girls in science by commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 Date
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science happens every February 11th. Its goal is to support women and girls so they can fully take part in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 Theme
This year, we’re focusing on “Closing the Gender Gap in Science: Accelerating Action.” This highlights the importance of removing obstacles that hold back women and girls from succeeding in STEM careers. These obstacles include:
- Stereotypes and bias: Society often expects men to dominate STEM fields, discouraging women from pursuing them.
- Lack of role models: There aren’t enough women in top STEM positions to inspire and mentor young girls.
- Unequal access to education: Many girls around the world don’t have the same opportunities for quality STEM education and resources.
- Discrimination and harassment: Women in STEM often face mistreatment, making the field unwelcoming.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 History
The push for more women in science has been ongoing, and the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) is a key part of this effort. Despite being just one day, it represents a global shift towards recognizing the importance of women in STEM fields. Here’s a brief history:
In 2011, the Commission on the Status of Women acknowledged the need for equal access for girls and women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
In 2013, the UN General Assembly recognized women’s crucial role in scientific progress and called for action to remove barriers to their participation.
2015 was a landmark year when the UN declared February 11th as IDWGIS. Its goals are to ensure equal access to STEM education and careers, celebrate women’s achievements in science, and tackle the root causes of gender disparity.
Each year, IDWGIS focuses on different themes to address key issues:
- 2016: Access and participation
- 2017: Global citizenship and action
- 2018: Gender equality through science, technology, and innovation
- 2019: Investing in a gender-equal STEM future
- 2020: Using science and technology for a sustainable future
- 2021: Women leading the fight against COVID-19
- 2022: Imagining a better future for girls and women in STEM
- 2023: Innovating, investing, and accelerating progress in STEM for girls and women
These themes highlight the ongoing effort to promote gender equality and empowerment in the STEM fields.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 Significance
The push for fairness in science isn’t new. However, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science underscores the ongoing struggle for gender equality in STEM fields. Despite some progress, women and girls are still not well-represented in these areas. This special day emphasizes the importance of closing this gap and providing equal opportunities for females to pursue careers in STEM.
By showcasing the accomplishments of women and girls in STEM, this day encourages and empowers young girls to follow their scientific passions and overcome obstacles.
Encouraging more women and girls to join STEM fields leads to a richer and more inclusive scientific community. This diversity fosters creativity and innovation, making it essential for addressing global issues like climate change, healthcare, and sustainable development.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 FAQs
Q.1. What is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS)?
Ans. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed every February 11th, is a global initiative to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. It aims to promote gender equality and encourage greater participation of females in these areas.
Q.2. Why is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science important?
Ans. This day is important because it highlights the ongoing gender gap in STEM fields and emphasizes the need for equal opportunities for women and girls. By acknowledging their contributions and addressing barriers they face, it seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of female scientists and innovators.
Q.3. What is the theme for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024?
Ans. The theme for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 is “Closing the Gender Gap in Science: Accelerating Action.” This theme focuses on removing obstacles such as stereotypes, lack of role models, unequal access to education, and discrimination that hinder women and girls from succeeding in STEM careers.
Q.4. How can I get involved in the International Day of Women and Girls in Science?
Ans. You can get involved by participating in events and activities organized by various institutions, schools, and communities to celebrate women and girls in science. This may include attending seminars, workshops, or panel discussions, promoting awareness on social media, or volunteering with organizations that support women in STEM.
Q.5. What are some long-term goals of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science?
Ans. Some long-term goals of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science include increasing the representation of women and girls in STEM education and careers, creating a supportive environment free from gender bias and discrimination, and fostering a diverse and inclusive scientific community that drives innovation and addresses global challenges effectively.
