The underrepresentation of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields continues to persist despite efforts made to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM.
It's for this reason that a day such as the International Day of Girls in Information and Communication Technology is observed to promote gender equality and empower women and girls in the fields of ICT and science, respectively.
The National Commission on Research, Science, and Technology (NCRST) observed the International Day of Girls in ICT together with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in Windhoek.
According to the National Council of Higher Education report of 2021, 22% of male students were in physical, mathematical, and computer science.
"Only 7.4% of women studying are in STEM fields, so that is a problem for us in Namibia. I know that you always hear that at the university about 70% of female enrollment and over 70% of women graduating, but we need to look at where exactly the 70% is coming from because in the STEM field that is where you find women and girls are still underrepresented," said Professor Ancia Peters, the CEO of the NCRST.
The UN reports that 90% of future jobs will require ICT skills, and it is estimated that some two million jobs will be created in STEM fields.
However, it is unfortunate that women in ICT often find themselves in junior or support roles rather than managerial roles, with little opportunity for advancement, causing them to leave STEM-related jobs at higher rates than men.
"To thrive in STEM, it is crucial to recognise the significant role that women and girls play in shaping the future of STEM. From pioneering discoveries to ground-breaking innovations, they have continuously pushed the boundaries of knowledge and inspired generations to pursue their passions fearlessly."
The International Day of Girls in ICT, observed on the fourth Thursday of April each year, highlights the importance of encouraging girls and young women to pursue careers in ICT and science.