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UNESCO Addis joins the world to Celebrate International Day of Girls and Women in Science
UNESCO Addis Ababa joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of Girls and Women in Science, Research, Technology, and Innovation. The event, held under the theme “Advancing Adolescent Girls’ Health and Well-being Through Science and Technology,” highlighted the crucial role of women and girls in driving progress in these fields.
The conference was graced by distinguished guests, including the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Kora Tushune, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Dereje Duguma, and the Ethiopia Country Director of Marie Stopes International. Several dignitaries, academics, and media representatives also attended, reinforcing the importance of gender equality in STEM fields.
Addressing the persistent gender gap in STEM, H.E. Dr. Kora Tushune acknowledged the challenges women and girls face globally, noting that they represent only 28% of the STEM workforce in many regions. He called for concrete actions, including early STEM education, mentorship, and breaking stereotypes that discourage young girls from pursuing science and technology careers. “Representation matters,” he added. “When young girls see women succeeding in STEM, they believe they can do the same.”
Speaking at the event, the Ethiopian Minister of State for Health, Dr. Dereje Duguma, acknowledged the vital role women play in society and the remarkable achievements they can attain when provided with an equal playing field in the fields of science, technology, mathematics, and engineering.
Dr. Abdoulaye Salifou, Chief of the Education Sector at the UNESCO Liaison Office to the AU and UNECA, emphasized the significance of this day, stating, “This Day is an opportunity to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. Gender equality is a global priority for UNESCO, and the support of young girls, their education, and their full ability to make their ideas heard are levers for development and peace.”
This annual UNESCO event serves as a powerful platform to advocate for greater inclusion and empowerment of women and girls in science, ensuring a more equitable and innovative future.
