Expo 2020 hosts International Day for Women and Girls in Science

Trailblazers working in space, climate change, energy and more will mark today's International Day for Women and Girls in Science at Expo 2020 Dubai, sharing personal experiences and exchanging strategies to encourage others to join.

Recognising that science and gender equality are vital for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, the programme will celebrate the successes of women change-makers and hone in on the role of mentors in guiding the next generation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The event's being held in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, their main celebration for this year.

Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, said that "Science informs and guides our global commitments to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, and scientific research has shown how imperative it is that female perspectives are brought into STEM to enrich and enhance knowledge and further innovation. We must build a culture and infrastructure where women and girls are inspired and encouraged to join the rapidly evolving STEM fields so that we can secure a more prosperous future for all humankind."

#WomenInScience are still underrepresented and struggle to get recognition for their achievements.

On 11 February, take a stand with UNESCO and UN Women to end gender bias that holds girls back from pursuing a career in #STEM! pic.twitter.com/bBThpU3ljt

— UN Women (@UN_Women) February 10, 2022