The International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS), observed annually on 11 February, marks a crucial moment to reflect on the progress made towards gender equality in science and to reaffirm commitments to breaking down the barriers that still exist. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, IDWGS highlights the persistent gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and the urgent need to ensure full and equal participation for women and girls in these fields. Despite significant advancements in education and professional opportunities, women remain underrepresented in scientific research, leadership, and innovation.
As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of IDWGS in 2025, this milestone coincides with another pivotal moment—the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework for gender equality. These anniversaries serve as a reminder that achieving gender parity in STEM requires dismantling stereotypes, promoting role models, supporting women’s career advancement, and fostering inclusive environments where diversity thrives. Soroptimist International (SI) has long championed these principles, working to empower women and girls through education, advocacy, and including targeted programs that create pathways into STEM careers.
Advancing Digital Skills and STEM Opportunities for Women and Girls
SI Advocacy AI Advisor
SI is committed to empowering women and girls by expanding access to education, training, and technology—key tools for bridging the gender gap in science and innovation. In recognition of the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future, SI has appointed an Advocacy AI Advisor, Tania Gomez Herazo, to help navigate the challenges and opportunities AI presents for gender equality. With AI increasingly influencing industries, employment, and everyday life, this role will strengthen SI’s advocacy efforts by ensuring that gender considerations remain central to discussions on AI governance, ethics, and education. By addressing gender bias in AI development and promoting equitable access to AI-related opportunities, SI continues to champion a future where women and girls are not just participants but leaders in technology-driven fields.
Empowering Women and Girls in Georgia
SI’s commitment to digital empowerment is also evident in a recent project in Georgia, funded by Soroptimist International Foundation, which aimed to enhance digital skills and online safety for women and girls. Through the SKYE Tech Clubs, 20 vulnerable young women, aged 14 to 19, received comprehensive training in IT, social media management, and content creation. The program, which ran from February to July 2024, combined theoretical learning with hands-on experience, equipping participants with essential digital competencies to access online job opportunities and gain economic independence. In addition to technical training, the project incorporated active citizenship education, aligning with pro-European civil activism and encouraging young women to engage meaningfully in their communities. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants underscores the life-changing potential of such initiatives in breaking barriers and fostering long-term empowerment.
In recent years and as part of its broader advocacy efforts, SI has also published position papers on Access to Education and Training and Women and Technology, reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that education and technological advancement are inclusive and accessible. By advocating for policies that support women’s participation in STEM and implementing projects that provide hands-on digital skills training, SI continues to drive forward a future where women and girls can thrive in science, technology, and beyond.
Building a Future for Women in Science
As we look ahead to the next decade, it is essential to continue dismantling the barriers that prevent women and girls from fully participating in science, technology, and innovation. Soroptimist International remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing gender equality in STEM by fostering opportunities for education, skills development, and advocacy.
By equipping women and girls with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel in STEM, we are not just promoting gender equality—we are helping to build a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable future for all. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to pursue her passion, break new ground, and become a leader in shaping the world of tomorrow.