WHY WE NEED MORE WOMEN IN STEM
According to a 2023 MIT study, only 28% of the STEM workforce comprises women. And in countries like Kenya where limitations to STEM spaces are quite considerable, this number is even lower. But what would happen if we addressed barriers to STEM and made it an inclusive space, not just for women but for all people? We discuss the benefits of more women in STEM in this short thinkpiece:
BENEFITS OF MORE WOMEN IN STEM
Societal stereotypes and organizational bias count for some of the biggest challenges for women who want to join STEM spaces. If we addressed these and more issues, the world would enjoy the following benefits:
STRIDES IN GENDER EQUITY
A woman left behind is a community left behind. And for many decades, women have been locked out of decision-making tables yet these decisions affect them in all aspects, from how they raise their children to how they get integrated into the society.
Including more women in STEM will give them a voice and the resources they need to further more gender inclusivity so that decisions made at the top of the ladder have positive trickledown effects on women. Take the example of fertility treatments. With more women involved in these processes, they can have a say on what treatments they should get, having examined the risks and benefits of such measures.
ECONOMIC GROWTH
The world needs all genders to contribute to economic growth. This contribution comes in various forms, including research, implementation, and funding. If women are not contributing to these changes, the world gets left behind. After all, a 2023 study showed that women account for 49.7% of the population.
If the world can capitalize on this human capital, developments would be more embraced and faster.
Women make up 49.7% of the world’s population: World Data Atlas
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Admin
For us to accelerate progress, we must invest in women
Admin
Women make up only 34% of the workforce in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)
Admin
Creating opportunities for hands-on work experience and an inclusive workplace environment is key for retaining young women in STEM careers.
Admin
It is our responsibility to encourage girls to venture into STEM careers.