The Need for Gender Diversity in STEM Roles

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Women have made some of the most remarkable scientific breakthroughs in history. Their stories are rarely told, but it only takes a little digging to find women who have excelled in science, technology, engineering, and maths, and still somehow women continue to be underrepresented in STEM. However, if such gaps are not due to differences in intellectual ability, what factors explain why they do not pursue education and careers in these fields?

When it comes to ensuring that the next generation of women feels empowered to close the gender gap, there are some powerful lessons to be learned about what works and what doesn’t. “Young women require relatable role models. Today’s girls are fortunate to have many accomplished women to look up to. We must honor these trailblazers and share their stories with young women to demonstrate that STEM careers are open to anyone who has the curiosity and desire to pursue one. Girls may doubt their ability to turn their interest in STEM subjects into a career if they only see men in those fields. It’s our job as educators to show them that, despite the odds, women have made significant contributions to STEM fields throughout history—and they can, too,” says Anoop Singh Bishnoi, Chairman of The Doon School, Dehradun.

Many young women want to make a difference in the world. They want to know how science and technology can help to solve public health and environmental issues, as well as make the world a safer place. We need to do a better job of demonstrating the importance of STEM fields in achieving those goals. It is insufficient to state that STEM fields provide excellent career opportunities. We need to take it a step further and show them how STEM can help solve societal problems. Girls can gain a better understanding of what they could do as an engineer or programmer by participating in practical and enjoyable engineering, programming, and scientific activities from an early age. It all comes down to making STEM more approachable, welcoming, and exciting.

“We must be aware of the expectations and use encouragement as a tool to help girls explore their options. Girls should be given the resources they need to satisfy their curiosity, and they should be commended for their initiative and effort in exploring STEM subjects. A pat on the back can help a girl who is insecure about her interest in science or maths in a culture that does not encourage,” adds Anoop.

Many girls will abandon their interest in STEM fields if mentors and teachers do not break down the barriers. Raising awareness and actively engaging students can help pave the way for equality. Girls are equally skilled in the subjects as boys. The difference is that they must understand STEM is for them. It all boils down to expectations.

Location: New Delhi, Delhi, India

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