The UN has decried what it termed “a significant gender gap” across the world that persists at all levels of science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines.

The underrepresentation of women in STEM is highlighted on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed on February 11.

UN secretary-general António Guterres said the gap is particularly pronounced in technology, where women represent just 26 per cent of the workforce in data and AI, and 12 per cent in cloud computing.

Although data shows that women are more likely than young men to pursue higher education, they make up only 35 per cent of science graduates.

However, factors such as lack of research funding, gender stereotypes, and discriminatory workplace practices have been identified as responsible for the low representation.

“Excluding women from science weakens our collective capacity to address urgent global challenges, from climate change to public health to space security,” Mr Guterres warned.

As societies continue to grapple with widening inequalities, the UN believes that integrating AI, social science, STEM, and finance can accelerate inclusive and sustainable development.

Synergising these four domains can help dismantle persistent barriers by closing gender gaps in digital skills and  catalysing women-driven start-ups,

It can also help advance gender-responsive AI governance and mobilise finance that embeds social inclusion as a performance metric.

“From advancing renewable energy to preventing the next pandemic, our future hinges on unlocking as much human talent as possible,” the UN secretary-general said. “Today and every day, let us ensure that women and girls can realise their scientific ambitions – for their rights, and for the benefit of all.”

A UNICEF-led  programme combines science masterclasses with mentoring, communication training and confidence-building.

Thousands of girls have taken part, and many have gone on to pursue university degrees in STEM.

(NAN)