International Day of Women and Girls in Science

11 February marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It is a day dedicated to empowering the next generation of scientists. While many of us may visualise scientists in white lab coats, it’s essential to recognise that scientists come from diverse genders, backgrounds and walks of life. This day is more than just a celebration of the remarkable accomplishments of women in science; it’s a call to action to dismantle the barriers that have historically excluded girls and women from participating in the scientific community.

Currently, women account for less than 30% of researchers globally. This underrepresentation means we’re losing out on countless innovative ideas and groundbreaking discoveries that could arise from a more inclusive scientific workforce.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science aims to challenge stereotypes, promote equal opportunities and encourage every girl to realise that STEM fields—Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics—are open to anyone with curiosity and creativity.

The pressing global issues we face today—including climate change, disease and technological advancement—demand the brightest minds working collaboratively. Excluding half of the population from science is like trying to solve complex puzzles with only half the pieces. Women scientists have already contributed tremendously, from Marie Curie's groundbreaking work on radioactivity to Katherine Johnson's calculations that enabled lunar missions.

In India, women scientists are making significant strides. The country ranks third in the growth rate of women researchers, with a notable increase in participation across fields like biotechnology and medicine. Key figures include Tessy Thomas, known as the ‘Missile Woman of India’; Gagandeep Kang, who played a vital role in developing India’s first rotavirus vaccine; Nandini Harinath, who managed the Mars Orbiter Mission; and Chandrima Shaha, the first woman president of the Indian National Science Academy. Despite these achievements, women still represent only 14% of the STEM workforce in India, indicating that more work lies ahead. As educators, we can play a crucial role in empowering girls in STEM. We should encourage a growth mindset by teaching that math and science skills can be developed over time. It’s vital to praise girls’ abilities equally and train teachers to recognise and combat gender biases. Inviting female role models into the classroom, featuring women in educational materials, and introducing STEM concepts through hands-on activities can foster interest and confidence in young female learners. Parents also have a pivotal role in this movement. Encourage girls by affirming their capabilities, emphasising that everyone faces challenges in learning and viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Discussing STEM careers in everyday life helps normalise these fields for both girls and boys, demonstrating that creative problem-solving is a shared endeavour.