Breaking Stereotypes: Encouraging Girls to Pursue Careers in STEM

As we celebrate International Girls in ICT Day, we are reminded of the importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity in tech. Despite progress being made, there's still a gender gap in STEM fields that needs to be addressed. In fact, according to a report by the European Commission, women make up just 33% of the science and technology workforce in Europe. This lack of diversity is concerning, especially when you consider that STEM fields play a crucial role in driving innovation and solving some of the world's most pressing issues.

We must break down stereotypes and misconceptions about STEM careers, celebrate the achievements of women in these fields, and showcase the vast array of career opportunities available to them. It's time to challenge the stereotypes that often dissuade girls from pursuing STEM, such as the belief that these fields are primarily male-dominated.

Growing up, I was always interested in science and math. However, my excitement was often met with discouragement from my peers and even some teachers. They would say things like, "Those classes are for boys" or "Girls don't usually do well in those subjects." It made me feel like I didn't belong in those classes and that I should stick to more "feminine" subjects. Unfortunately, this has been a universal experience for most teenage girls.

Encouraging girls to pursue STEM careers starts with education, and the sooner, the better. It's important to introduce girls to the world of science and technology from a young age and provide them with the tools and resources they need to explore their interests. This can be done through after-school programs, summer camps, or even just providing access to books and resources. It's equally important to provide mentorship, support,and  role models to look up to, while fostering their passion and confidence in pursuing these fields. I'm proud to celebrate the achievements of women in these fields and showcase the vast array of career opportunities available to them. We must create a culture that empowers and supports women to pursue their passions in STEM.

Why is it so important to encourage more girls to pursue careers in STEM you might ask? Firstly, it's about creating a more diverse and inclusive industry. When you have a team that represents different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, you're more likely to come up with innovative solutions and make better decisions.

Secondly, there's a significant economic benefit to having more women in STEM. Studies have shown that companies with more gender diversity perform better financially. By increasing the number of women in STEM, we're not only creating more job opportunities for women, but we're also driving economic growth.

In conclusion, International Girls in ICT Day serves as a reminder that we must continue to work towards promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. By providing girls with the necessary education and support, we can help them pursue their interests in science and technology, and in doing so, create a better future for everyone.

Jana Havránková on 27/04/2023