#IDWGS Essay: HONOURING WOMEN IN SCIENCE: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE by Shubh Ashish Singh

Women have played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of science and technology. Whether it be the scientist responsible for writing millions of codes to send the first man to moon, or any other, their contributions have been instrumental in advancing knowledge, innovation, and progress in various fields. However, despite their significant achievements, women in science have often faced challenges and barriers that hinder their full participation and recognition in the scientific community, the main reason being historical prejudice and biasness. In recognition of their invaluable contributions and to promote gender equality in the field of science, the United Nations declared the 11th of February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which stands as an essential means to prove and celebrate the contributions of women in the field of science and technology.

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was first established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, with the aim of promoting full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. This day serves as a platform to celebrate the achievements of women in science and to encourage young girls to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. It also highlights the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in the scientific community.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women scientists and researchers around the world. It is a day to recognize their ground-breaking discoveries, innovative research, and dedicated contribution to the advancement of science and technology. From Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, to current trailblazers like Dr. Frances Arnold, a pioneer in bioengineering and Nobel laureate, women have made remarkable contributions to various scientific disciplines.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Despite the progress made in promoting gender equality in science, women and girls still face numerous challenges in pursuing careers in STEM fields. These challenges include gender stereotypes, lack of access to resources and opportunities, and discrimination in the workplace. It is essential to address these barriers and create an inclusive environment that empowers women and girls to thrive in the field of science.

On the other hand, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science also presents opportunities for advocacy, awareness-raising, and policy interventions to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the scientific community. By highlighting the achievements of women in science, showcasing role models, and providing mentorship and support to aspiring female scientists, we can inspire a new generation of women and girls to pursue careers in STEM fields.

One of the primary goals of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is to inspire and empower the next generation of female scientists and innovators. By encouraging young girls to pursue their interests in science and providing them with the necessary support and resources, we can help bridge the gender gap in STEM fields. Mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and STEM education initiatives can play a crucial role in nurturing the talents and aspirations of young women in science.

Creating an inclusive and diverse scientific community is essential for driving innovation, creativity, and progress in the field of science. By promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in science, we can harness the full potential of our collective talent and expertise. Collaboration, support, and recognition of women scientists are key to building a more equitable and inclusive scientific community that benefits society as a whole.

CONCLUSION

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a reminder of the remarkable achievements of women in science and a call to action to promote gender equality and empowerment in STEM fields. By celebrating the contributions of women scientists, advocating for inclusivity and diversity, and inspiring the next generation of female innovators, we can create a more equitable and thriving scientific community. Let us celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by honouring the achievements of women in science, supporting gender equality initiatives, and empowering women and girls to pursue their passions and dreams in the field of science.

The sole fact that women of today need to be allotted a special day to commend them for their contributions in the field of science, and promote their further involvement and contribution in the same is an achievement, but deep inside raises the serious concerns that are we as a society this fallen behind that we need to allot a day to do the same, undermining women everyday? These concerns require a call of action from every individual and every person there is, and together divert the society’s prejudices and biased beliefs aims towards criticising women to support and appreciation of women in any workforce and field let alone sciene.

About the Author

I am a law student, majorly socially inclined, and wants to create an impact in the world through the same. I am lacking the means to achieve my goals yet, but as I foster my ideas my resolution gets more absolute and thus I become more determined to find and mend ways to achieve my goals of creating an impact on the world.