#IDWGS Essay: Women and Girls Leadership in Science: A New Era of Sustainability by Shivaanee

Written by: Shivaanee Nagintheran

Title: Women and Girls Leadership in Science: A New Era of Sustainability

Ongoing discussions and debates surround the progress of women in different industries, delineated across several eras. From an era where women were confined to roles as entertainers and subjected to servitude, there has been a transformative shift towards an era marked by education and independence. Throughout each era, women have tirelessly fought for their rights and equality, striving for recognition and intellectual parity.

In certain periods, women emerged as well-educated individuals, fiercely competing with men. However, stereotypical industry classifications persisted, restricting women to specific roles such as teachers, administrators, clerical workers, models, and within fashion and cinema industries, as well as nursing.

Fortunately, we now find ourselves in an era where women assume leadership roles across various industries without arbitrary classifications or restrictions. This marks a significant stride towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Empowerment of women in the field of science has witnessed remarkable progress, with women occupying diverse positions in scientific endeavours. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on February 11, stands as a tribute to the remarkable achievements and contributions of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

In 2024, the theme for this day is ‘Women and Girls in Science Leadership, a New Era for Sustainability,’ coupled with the sub-theme ‘Think Science, Think Peace.’ This highlights the growing importance of women taking leadership roles in science and promotes a vision of science as a force for peace and sustainability.

Numerous remarkable women have made significant contributions to the field of science. For instance, Madam Curie conducted pioneering research on radioactivity, while Madam Shakuntala Devi, an Indian mental calculator and writer, earned her place in the 1982 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records.

Madam Tessy Thomas, an Indian scientist and Director General of Aeronautical Systems, holds the distinction of being the first woman scientist to lead a missile project in India. Meanwhile, Madame Creola Katherine Johnson, an American mathematician, played a critical role in the success of the first U.S crewed space flights through her orbital mechanics calculations as a NASA employee.

Barbara McClintock, honoured with the Nobel Prize in Medicine, made groundbreaking contributions in cytogenetics, particularly in the discovery of the 'jumping gene.' These women, among many others, have achieved and continue to excel in the field of science, leaving an enduring impact.

Despite the notable achievements of women in science, significant challenges persist in their quest for success and sustainability. One prominent challenge is the scarcity of female role models in STEM. The limited number of women actively involved and thriving in the science field can contribute to imposter syndrome, potentially dissuading other women from pursuing careers in STEM.

Another substantial challenge is the difficulty women encounter in balancing family and work responsibilities. This struggle remains a pervasive issue, affecting women in various contexts, regardless of the country's development status. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in science.

In addition to the challenges previously mentioned, women in science also contend with gender bias, workplace discrimination, and the pervasive issue of sexual harassment. These factors, among others, contribute to premature disruptions in women's careers within the field of science.

As of 2023, the gender gap in STEM remains pronounced, with women constituting only 28% of the STEM workforce globally. Examining specific regions worldwide offers a sobering perspective — the figure stands at 24% in the United States, 17% in the European Union, 16% in Japan, and 14% in India. These statistics underscore the persistent challenge of achieving gender balance in STEM professions on a global scale.

As a solution to the aforementioned issues, global initiatives should be undertaken, with events like the celebration of International Women and Girls in Science serving as a

notable example. These initiatives should involve a diverse range of activities and events aimed at fostering inclusivity and recognition within the scientific community.

Providing proper recognition for women's achievements in science is pivotal. Such acknowledgment acts as a significant landmark, inspiring the new generation to engage in science without hesitation. By amplifying the visibility of women's accomplishments, we can create an environment that encourages more women to pursue and thrive in scientific careers.

To address the gender gap in STEM, there is a pressing need for an escalation of events, activities, and campaigns. With the extensive reach of social media, such initiatives can be easily activated to amplify awareness. Moreover, it is imperative to emphasize not only empowering women but also educating men on the principles of treating their female counterparts, co-workers, and co-researchers with equality, devoid of any gender discrimination or harassment. This holistic approach is vital for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment in STEM and beyond.

In conclusion, we are in a new era where a great mindset and open-mindedness can propel women toward significant sustainability in science. It's time to move beyond labels like mother tongue, motherland, or motherboard, mother nature and instead offer equal treatment and respect to capable women, enabling them to pursue and sustain their dreams in scientific roles. The success of women is, unequivocally, a success for society as a whole.

About the Author

My name is Shivaanee D/O Nagintheran, and I am 12 years old this year. My hobbies include reading books such as novels, comics, and magazines, as well as playing the piano. My ambition is to become a lawyer. Currently, I am studying at SJK{T} SARASWATHY in Sungai Buloh, Selangor.  Books are my best friends, and I always allocate time for reading. In addition to that, I also enjoy swimming. I actively seek out challenges, as they not only make me feel more confident but also allow me to learn new skills.  I love my life and appreciate everything around me.