One of the common misconceptions and the relatively widespread stereotypes about women is that they have no significant science, engineering, and mathematics role. Based on these false perceptions, even in the educational system of some countries, there are restrictions on women continuing their education in these fields. However, dozens of internationally well-known women scientists, including in various engineering fields and their inventions, initiatives, achievements, and meritorious services, shaped our modern world and everyday human life. These facts are the best reason for the unreliability of those stereotypes.
Science and gender equality are vital for achieving the internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Over the past 15 years, the global community has made a lot of effort in inspiring and engaging women and girls in science.
Due to mentioned common misconceptions and stereotypes yet, women and girls continue to be excluded from participating fully in science.
At present, less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women. Moreover, according to UNESCO data (2014 – 2016), only around 30% of all female students select STEM-related fields in higher education. Globally, female students’ enrolment is particularly low in ICT (3%), natural science, mathematics, and statistics (5%), and in engineering, manufacturing, and construction (8%).
One of the appropriate measures to increase the awareness of governments, families, and women and girls themselves about the importance of women and girls in the field of engineering is the announcement of June 23 as International Women in Engineering Day (INWED).
INWED is a special day during which women engineers celebrate their achievements. Taking time to celebrate women’s accomplishments in a traditionally male-dominated field reminds all of us how rewarding their work is. In addition, it allows us to show off their careers, interests, and achievements.
Since recognizing women in engineering, the field is growing in popularity. More and more women flock to the engineering field as they become inspired by the women who pioneered the field before them. The ultimate goal is to have an equal representation of people from all walks of life working in STEM roles.
Having equal representation in roles that are meant to make our lives easier can make a massive difference for everyone. A great example of this is artificial intelligence or AI. If we only have one group of people designing the technology, it may only benefit the people who look like them, make the same amount of money, live in the same types of homes or neighborhoods, or go to the same schools. On the other hand, if we have a diverse group of people designing technology, the product will benefit many people from various backgrounds.
Throughout history, women have been bringing their skills to the table. Their minds curious, their wits quick, they have broken the mold and pursued their dreams. They have made groundbreaking discoveries in their fields. Without their work, many of the things we enjoy today may not exist. Women today are inspired by them. That is why we celebrate this day, so the women today can motivate the next generation to create a better and fairer world for all human beings and nature.
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