Every year on February 11th, the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to recognising the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, this day is an opportunity to highlight the achievements of women in science, inspire the next generation of female scientists, and address the gender gap that persists in the scientific community.
Inspiring the next generation
Encouraging girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is essential for achieving gender equality and fostering innovation. By providing girls with access to quality education, mentorship, and resources, we can help them develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in these fields.
Programs like Girls Who Code, STEM camps, and school-based initiatives are playing a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of female scientists.
Addressing the gender gap
Despite the progress made, women and girls still face numerous challenges in the scientific community. Gender bias, lack of representation, and unequal opportunities are just a few of the barriers that need to be addressed.
It’s important for organisations, institutions, and individuals to take active steps to create an inclusive environment where women and girls can thrive. This includes implementing policies that promote diversity, offering mentorship and support, and challenging stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing STEM careers.
Honouring women in science
This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let’s take a moment to honour the incredible women who have made significant contributions to science and technology.
Here are a few inspiring examples..
Ada Lovelace
Ada Lovelace, known as the first computer programmer, who made pioneering contributions to the field of computer science.
Rosalind Franklin
Rosalind Franklin, whose work with X-ray diffraction was critical to understanding the structure of DNA.
Mae Jemison
Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel to space, who continues to advocate for science education and exploration.
Tu Youyou
Tu Youyou, a Chinese pharmaceutical chemist who discovered artemisinin, a vital drug in the fight against malaria.
Professor Ruth Oniango
Professor Ruth Oniango, a professor of food science and nutrition. She has been involved in action research in food systems, particularly in rural areas. She founded the African Journal of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development (AJFAND) to promote scientific research and share knowledge.
These women, along with countless others, serve as role models for aspiring scientists and remind us of the incredible potential that lies within each of us.
Professor Ruth Oniang’o: champion for nutrition, education and Afrocentric research
One such trailblazer is Professor Ruth Oniang’o, a professor of food science and nutrition. Professor Oniang’o is a proponent of action research in the field of food systems, particularly in rural communities. The Community Revolution (TCR) had the opportunity to have an in depth discussion with Professor Oniang’o at her office in Nairobi, Kenya.
During the discussion we learnt that she founded the African Journal of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development (AJFAND); to promote scientific research and the creation, and sharing of, knowledge. As Professor Oniang’o says, “scientific research and knowledge-sharing are crucial for the development of sustainable food systems.”
Professor Oniang’o shares our passion for gender equality in agricultural value chains, highlighting that “women farmers play a vital role in food production and nutrition. Through rural outreach programs, we empower women by introducing nutritious crops. Often, women’s contributions to food systems go undocumented, and our journal aims to rectify that”.
Professor Oniang’o shares our value for knowledge and education, believing that “education is the foundation for empowering young girls to pursue their dreams in science”.
Professor Oniang’o shares our goal for providing places for community learning stressing the importance of “creating an environment where women and girls feel valued and supported in their scientific pursuits”.
To hear more from our discussion with Professor Oniang’o, follow and subscribe to The Community Revolution’s media channels to be notified of its publication.
How you can get involved
There are many ways to celebrate and support women and girls in science on this special day:
- Mentorship: Offer mentorship and guidance to young girls interested in STEM fields. Sharing your knowledge and experiences can make a significant impact on their journey.
- Advocacy: Advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality in the workplace and educational institutions.
- Education: Support programs and initiatives that provide girls with access to quality STEM education and resources.
- Visibility: Highlight and celebrate the achievements of women in science through social media, events, and public speaking.
Aligning with the values of The Community Revolution
At The Community Revolution, our core values revolve around empowerment, sustainability, and community engagement. By celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we are championing these very principles. Empowering women and girls in STEM fields aligns with our mission to foster inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Promoting sustainable development through scientific innovation ensures a better future for all. Engaging with the community to support and uplift women in science creates a ripple effect of positive change.
Celebrating a future of innovation
As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let’s remember that the future of innovation depends on the contributions of everyone, regardless of gender. By empowering women and girls to pursue their passions in science and technology, we can create a world where diversity and creativity drive progress and discovery.
Join our community
Let’s celebrate the incredible women and girls who are shaping the future of science.
Join our community committed to empowering women and girls in science and promoting gender equality in STEM fields.
Follow us on social media for updates and inspiring stories. Participate in live community engagement sessions and sign up for our email newsletter to stay informed and inspired. Let’s work together to create a future where diversity and innovation drive progress and discovery.
Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science! 🌟🔬
