#IDWGS Essay - INNOVATION KNOWS NO GENDER: WOMEN'S TRIUMPH IN SCIENCE by Harmannat Kour

INNOVATION KNOWS NO GENDER: WOMEN'S TRIUMPH IN SCIENCE

Despite their vital contributions, women and girls have historically been underrepresented in the enormous field of scientific investigation, frequently being pushed to the periphery. But things are starting to change, and more people are realizing how important it is for women and girls to hold leadership positions in science. Their viewpoints and skills are crucial for tackling the difficult problems of our day, from ground-breaking discoveries to creative solutions. Above all, valuing the diversity of genders in science leadership encourages creativity and inventiveness. Diverse teams perform better than homogenous ones, according to research, since different points of view foster innovation and unconventional thinking. By utilizing the entire range of abilities, including those of women and girls, the scientific community may open up new avenues for research and creativity.

Women have played crucial roles in many facets of space exploration and research. Dr. Tessy Thomas, often referred to as "The Missile Woman of India," is one such instance. Kalpana Chawla was the first Indian woman in space as well as the first Indian-American astronaut. As the principal robotic arm operator and mission specialist, she made her Space Shuttle Columbia debut in 1997. Women scientists and engineers have contributed significantly to ISRO's accomplishments in a variety of fields, including project management, engineering, satellite design, and mission operations. Showcasing India's capability in space exploration, their knowledge and devotion have been seen in historic projects like the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan). Kalpana Kalahasti, the deputy project director, was one of the mission leaders. Future generations will continue to be inspired by women in ISRO who break down boundaries and spur innovation in the quest for scientific excellence. From 2019 to 2023, in the IT sector, there was an impressive increase of over 80,000 women.

With their creativity and knowledge, women have significantly shaped the engineering sector. Women engineers have made a lasting impact on every facet of the field, from groundbreaking advances in computer science and biomedical engineering to trailblazing advances in aerospace and civil engineering. Their inventions have revolutionized our way of life and work and accelerated advancements in infrastructure, technology, and healthcare. Women engineers continue to push limits, inspire the next generation, and dispel preconceptions through their leadership and tenacity, demonstrating that engineering transcends gender. The creative and visionary contributions of women have greatly enhanced the area of scientific architecture. Women architects have significantly influenced the development of scientific infrastructure, from creating cutting-edge research buildings and labs to conceiving creative and sustainable architectural solutions. Their knowledge has aided in the development of stimulating settings that encourage cooperation, experimenting, and discovery.

Furthermore, attaining sustainable development objectives depends on strengthening women and girls in science leadership roles. In order to solve global issues like food security, healthcare inequities, and climate change, science and technology are essential. Women and girls approach these difficulties with distinct perspectives and experiences; they frequently draw attention to neglected details and provide creative solutions. We can guarantee that scientific breakthroughs benefit every sphere of society and leave no one behind by elevating their voices and assuming leadership positions. In addition, eliminating prejudices and structural impediments in science leadership requires advancing gender equality. In the past, stereotypes and discrimination against women and girls have caused gaps in opportunity and representation in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) professions. We can fight these systemic injustices and build a more diverse scientific community by actively encouraging women and girls to pursue professions in research and take on leadership roles. Furthermore, future generations of women and girls are inspired by prominent female role models in science leadership, which opens the door for increased diversity and participation in the profession.

Investing in the leadership of women and girls in science has financial advantages as well. Research has indicated a positive correlation between enhanced profitability and organizational performance and the presence of gender diversity in leadership roles. Diverse leadership teams are better able to spur innovation and adjust to shifting market conditions in the context of science and technology, providing businesses with a competitive edge. Businesses and industries may benefit from a wealth of skill and experience by utilizing women and girls to their full potential. This will increase prosperity and growth. Women and girls encounter obstacles all around the world that prevent them from pursuing careers in STEM, including discriminatory behaviors, cultural norms, and limited educational opportunities. By removing these obstacles and establishing welcoming settings that encourage girls and women to pursue professions in science, we may encourage social mobility and give excluded populations more power. To guarantee that every perspective is heard and respected, science leadership should be representative of the variety of the people it serves.

In summary, women and girls' leadership roles in science are critical to advancing innovation and progress in the twenty-first century. We can realize the full potential of women and girls in STEM areas and use the transformational impact of diversity if we enable them to take on leadership roles in these sectors. We can build a more diverse and egalitarian scientific community by working together to remove systematic prejudices and barriers, advance gender equality, and offer mentorship and support. In the end, supporting women and girls in science leadership roles is not only morally right but also strategically necessary for addressing the many problems our planet faces. It's time to acknowledge and honor the priceless contributions made by women and girls to the advancement of science and technology.

CITATIONS AND REFERENCES:

https://frontline.thehindu.com/news/chandrayaan-3-success-puts-india-rocket-women-in-the-spotlight/article67247823.ece#:~:text=Who%20are%20some%20of%20ISRO's,and%20the%20Mars%20orbiter%20mission.

https://ncsm.gov.in/hi/resources/blog/indian-women-in-science-technology

https://www.indiascienceandtechnology.gov.in/listingpage/iwd-2021

https://www.investindia.gov.in/team-india-blogs/technology-driven-women-indian-scenario

https://www.onlinemanipal.com/blogs/the-role-of-todays-women-in-science-technology-and-innovation

https://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRAP06033.pdf

https://www.123helpme.com/essay/Womens-Role-in-Science-and-Technology-280415#:~:text=Women%20need%20to%20get%20out,technology%20that%20is%20been%20made.

About the Author

I'm Harmannat Kour, a dedicated law student currently pursuing my legal education at the Law School, University of Jammu. As a passionate learner, I thrive on a commitment to understand the nuances of justice, and I actively engage in academic discourse to broaden my perspective. Inspired by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the landscape of law and society, I am driven to excel academically and contribute positively to the community. Excited about the possibilities that the future holds, I am on a continuous quest for personal development in a dynamic field.