#IDWGS Essay - Empowering Women and Girls in Science Leadership towards a New Era for Sustainability by Innocent James Matekere

For centuries the vicinity of science has been dominated by males with its leadership reflecting abnormal distribution resulting in gender imbalance. However, a transformative shift in the twenty-first century has recognized the immersing potential of women and girls in science leadership as a driving force toward sustainability. The significance of this movement highlights the benefits of inclusivity, gender equality and diverse perspectives in resolving the global contemporary challenges.

The urgency of sustainability in the age of the Fourth Industrial Development cannot be underestimated. The severe climate change, natural resources degradation and rampant social inequities call upon immediate action to dismiss the challenges. To attain this, drinking the full cup of human talent is crucial. Women constituting more than half of the global population represent an untapped reservoir of problem-solving capacity that would help answer the ongoing quarries. Diversity in teams including gender balance and women inclusion is more likely to generate innovative solutions as compared to the team with men or boys alone. Women often bring different approaches and perspectives to the discussion, challenging traditional assumptions and providing more inclusive and sustainable solutions.

Empowering girls to pursue science careers from a young age is foundational to building a future generation with female leaders. Early exposure to science fosters a love for these fields and breaks down the societal stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing pathways to science. Meanwhile, mentorship programs, scholarships and targeted educational initiatives play a critical role in developing their talent and passion in the science field.

Nonetheless, only increasing the women’s participation in science is not enough to yield the best. Breaking through the glass windows that hinder their advancement into leadership positions is important as well. This entails removing system barriers, unconscious bias, individual doubt and discriminatory practices that prevent women and girls from accessing leadership roles. Initiatives such as increasing women's inclusivity in science training, psychological counseling and accessible funding opportunities.to pave the way in bridging the existing gender imbalance and increase women's representation at all levels in scientific leadership.

The roles of women and girls in science leadership toward sustainability are countless. Their knowledge, experience and expertise often impact the deeper understanding of the social and environmental spheres in scientific advancements. Additionally, scientific companies and organizations with women in leadership positions tend to practice more sustainability and demonstrate concern for future generations.

Furthermore, showcasing the achievements of women scientists is crucial to inspire future generations. Highlighting role models who have made significant contributions to science can ignite a passion for science in young girls and demonstrate the diverse possibilities within this field. For example, Marie Curie a female role model in radioactivity and atomic science can be considered as an inspiration to the generation of young girls to develop a career in science. This can be achieved through educational programs, media representation and celebrating international events such as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Also, scientific exhibitions should done at the scientific station so that women and girls can learn practically and through direct vision. The power of practice and visibility in learning is very crucial, especially to the generation of young women because it enhances understanding more than just listening without visually appealing learning materials. Last but not least, the scientific exchange programs between countries especially between developed and developing countries where girls and women can be recruited to learn about scientific tools, machines and accompanied knowledge of operating the staffs in the process of production. For example, there is an exchange program between Tanzania and Israel where college students are taken to learn about agricultural production through mechanization in Israel. The program takes many boys with few girls and sometimes no girls are recruited into the program. Girls being given priority in this kind of exchange program would empower them to do more in science.

Therefore, women and girls in science leadership are not just a matter of achieving gender balance and equality; they are the key to unlocking a new era of sustainability. By breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and empowering future generations of girls and women, we can harness the collective brilliance of humanity to overcome the challenges facing our planet. In doing so, we create a world where scientific progress serves not just the chosen few, but the well-being of all and the health of our shared environment. This is not merely a new era for sustainability, but a necessary step towards a more just and equitable future.

About the Author

Innocent James Matekere is multi-ward winning writer, who utilizes the power of written words to portray message with impact to the society for change to create a world with a passion for development.