International Day of Women and Girls in Science Observed Today

Kathmandu, Feb 11 — The International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS) is being marked worldwide today, highlighting the need to boost the participation of women and girls in science and technology.

The day draws attention to persistent gender gaps in science-related fields and stresses the importance of greater inclusion to promote sustainable and inclusive development. The United Nations proclaimed February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science through a resolution adopted on December 22, 2015, with the observance beginning in 2016.

The theme for this year’s observance is “Synergising AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls.”

In his message on the occasion, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised the importance of equal opportunities, stating that every girl should be able to envision a future in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and every woman should have the chance to succeed in a scientific career.

Despite progress, gender disparity remains significant. According to UNESCO, women currently make up less than one-third of researchers worldwide, underscoring the continued need for policy support and social change to close the gap.