International Day of Women and Girls in Science

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a global observance aimed at achieving gender equality and empowerment for women and girls in the scientific field. Instituted by the United Nations General Assembly, this observance hinges on the need to promote full and equal access to science for women and girls, recognizing their critical role in scientific and technological communities. The day underscores the importance of not only encouraging girls to pursue science careers but also celebrating and promoting the work of women scientists.

Recognizing the importance of this day, the United Kingdom has a rich history in advocacy to bridge the gender gap in science. Historically, the UK is the home to several pioneering women scientists such as Rosalind Franklin and Dorothy Hodgkin. In recent years, efforts have been amplified to encourage a greater number of women and girls to participate in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and careers. The observance implicitly amplifies the UK government's recent approach and efforts, such as the STEM ambassador programme and the WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) campaign, aimed directly at engaging more women and girls in science.

In the United Kingdom, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is honoured through various initiatives and programmes to encourage participation and emphasize the achievements of women in the field of science. Educational and governmental institutions, along with NGOs and public bodies, organize panel discussions, workshops, and mentorship programmes that expose the younger generation of women to STEM subjects. These events serve to inspire and guide them towards considering the scientific field as a prospective career. It is observed annually on the 11th of February, as designated by the United Nations, providing a space to promote, celebrate, and reflect upon the vital role women and girls play in scientific and technological development.

Facts about Women and Girls in Science

• The theme for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2023-2024 was (Innovate. Demonstrate. Elevate. Advance) - I.D.E.A.: Bringing communities Forward for sustainable and equitable development.
• According to UNESCO, fewer than 30% of researchers worldwide are women. Additionally, only 35% of all students enrolled in STEM-related fields worldwide are women.
• Three focus areas highlighted in the 2023 International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly are:
  1) Transforming Cities and Infrastructure for Sustainable Future
  2) The Road to Sustainable Transport
  3) Sustainable Business and Industry Communities
  4) Breaking Boundaries: Space Community I.D.E.A.S. for Sustainable Development
  5) Making Science Accessible
• According to UCAS data, women made up 51.8% of undergraduate acceptances in biology and 50.1% in chemistry in 2020.
• According to the Women's Engineering Society (WES), women make up just 12% of the engineering workforce in the UK. This is low compared to other European countries, but the number has been steadily growing.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Discover 12 notable women in STEM who have made a lasting impact on history.
• Learn how to get children interested in STEM. Some tips include cooking and baking as the mixing and measuring of values can create an interest in science. Other tips include using more math in everyday life. Discover more tips.
• Watch a film to learn more about Women and Girls in Science:
  The Race for the Double Helix (1987 - Although it's not solely focused on women in science, Rosalind Franklin, a critical contributor to the discovery of the structure of DNA, is a major character in this British movie.
  Codebreaker (2011) - A documentary-drama that tells the story of one of Britain's most extraordinary unsung heroes, Alan Turing. The film highlights the role of Joan Clarke, a code-breaker during World War II.
• Visit the Science Museum, London: The Science Museum in London often holds events and activities for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It is a great place to educate both women and girls about the significant contributions of women in science.