National Science Day: Why More Women Need to Choose Career in Science

Despite facing significant barriers to entry and advancement in the field of science and technology, women have persevered, and their contributions have been critical to advancements in medicine, technology, and other areas of scientific research. Women in science are still breaking down obstacles and opening doors for upcoming female scientists. However, there is still work to be done to address the gender disparities in STEM and ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to pursue careers in these fields. Let's talk about this on the occasion of National Science Day!

When is National Science Day celebrated? 

National Science Day is celebrated on February 28 every year in India to commemorate the discovery of the Raman effect by Indian physicist Sir C.V. Raman. This day is devoted to the science and the contribution it makes to the advancement of civilization. There is still a sizable gender gap in science, with fewer women than men choosing to pursue careers in the subject, despite tremendous advancements. We'll talk about the need for more women to pursue careers in science in this blog.

Gender disparity in science

In many nations, including India, women are underrepresented in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Despite an increase in female enrollment in higher education, there is still a sizable gender disparity in STEM areas. UNESCO statistics show that less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women. 

What is a STEM woman?

A woman who has chosen to work or study in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics is known as a STEM woman (STEM). Women have encountered obstacles to entry and progress in these fields since they have historically been predominantly male-dominated. Though it has been demonstrated that greater diversity in these professions promotes better innovation, problem-solving, and economic growth, there has been a growing effort in recent years to support and encourage women in STEM. Women in STEM can find employment in a wide range of fields, including medicine, engineering, information technology, research and development, and many more.

Some famous women in STEM that hail from India include Dr. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Dr. Indira Hinduja, Dr. Tessy Thomas, and Dr. Asha George amongst many others. With women making up only 14% of all scientists and engineers in India, there is a sizable gender imbalance in the field.

Reasons why more women should choose science as a career

1. Promoting gender equality: One of the main reasons why more women need to choose science as a career is to promote gender equality. Science is a male-dominated field, and increasing women's participation will help to break down gender barriers and promote gender equality.

2. Encouraging diversity: Women's participation in science will diversify the discipline. Science can benefit from new perspectives and innovative ideas brought by diversity.

3. Providing role models: Women in science can serve as role models for young girls who want to work in the field. We can encourage the subsequent generation of female scientists by raising the visibility of women in science.

4. Solving global challenges: In order to address issues like climate change, pandemics, and energy shortages, science is essential. We can make sure that science is employing the entire range of abilities and experiences available by boosting the engagement of women in the field.

5. Enhancing economic growth: Increasing the number of female scientists can boost the economy. Women's contributions to research can develop new markets for goods and services, which can boost the economy and create jobs.

How to encourage more women to choose science as a career

1. Encouraging girls to study science in school: By giving females the tools and chances to learn about and explore their interests, educators, and parents can motivate them to study science in school.

2. Providing mentorship and networking opportunities: Women scientists can act as mentors to young girls and provide them with networking opportunities to help them succeed in science.

3. Offering scholarships and fellowships: By giving funding for their studies and research, scholarships, and fellowships might inspire women to pursue a career in science.

4. Addressing unconscious bias: The elimination of unconscious bias can contribute to the development of a more welcoming and encouraging atmosphere for women in science. This can be achieved by offering administrators and scientists training on diversity and inclusion.

Conclusion

The participation of women in science is crucial for promoting gender equality, encouraging diversity, providing role models, solving global challenges, and enhancing economic growth. We need to take steps to encourage more women to choose science as a career by providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities to succeed. By doing so, we can ensure that the field of science is utilizing the full range of talent and expertise available and contributing to a better future for all.