We are first humans before we are anything else.
Our nationality, race, culture, gender, social status, economic standpoint, age etc. are not the first definition of us. Until we see each individual in terms of their humanity rather than the different social construct used to define each other, we may not be able to make long standing changes in the society.
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The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated on February 11, is a celebration established by the General Assembly in 2015 to recognize the critical roles women and girls play in science and technology. When we underestimate the capabilities of certain members of the society, we do not only limit the expressions of their individuality but we also limit the effect the society benefits from the collective efforts of each individual without a social construct. Achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, requires a fusion of science and gender equality. This is because there are strengths each gender brings to the table when discussions are made and action is to be taken.
A UNESCO data between 2014 and 2016 observed that less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women, only 30% of female students select STEM-related fields in higher education. Further analysis also- revealed that globally, female students’ enrolment is particularly low in ICT (3 per cent), natural science, mathematics and statistics (5 per cent) and in engineering, manufacturing and construction (8 per cent).
In a message on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2020, Audrey Azoulay, the Director General, said:
“If we are to be able to address the enormous challenges of the twenty -first century – from climate change to technological disruption – we will need to rely on science and the mobilization of all our resources. It is for this reason that the world must not be deprived of the potential, the intelligence, or the creativity of the thousands of women who are victims of deep-seated inequality and prejudice.
On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2020, UNESCO is calling on the international community, States and individuals to work together so that equality in the sciences and other fields can finally become a reality. Humanity has everything to gain– and so does science”.
This is the essence of celebrating this day. This year, the theme is focused on ‘Investment in Women and Girls in Science for Inclusive Green Growth.’
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Finally, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, said
“To rise to the challenges of the 21st century, we need to harness our full potential. That requires dismantling gender stereotypes. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let’s pledge to end the gender imbalance in science”.
In honour of the women and girls in our lives, smashing those goals in STEM education and changing societal perception about their abilities, I will share some words Dale Carnegie said:
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”
-Dale Carnegie
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