International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 will be observed on February 11 to recognise the crucial role of women in science and technology. This day aims to promote equal access and opportunities for women and girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). 

Gender disparity in these fields has been a persistent issue, and the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 encourages inclusive policies to bridge the gap. Read on for more information on the 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

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International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 Overview 

United Nations declared February 11th as International Day of Women and Girls in Science to acknowledge women's contributions and highlight the need for gender equality in scientific research and innovation. Events, workshops, and discussions will take place worldwide to inspire young girls to pursue careers in science. 

10th Anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS)

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of this global observance. Since its establishment in 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly, the day has played a significant role in advocating for women's inclusion in science.

Over the past decade, remarkable progress has been made in increasing female representation in scientific research and technology. However, challenges like gender discrimination, unequal pay, and lack of opportunities remain. The 10th anniversary of IDWGS assesses past achievements and reinforces commitments to empowering women in STEM fields.

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International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 Theme

The theme for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 is “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science.” It emphasizes breaking stereotypes and promoting female role models in STEM. UNESCO will host an event on this theme showcasing diverse speakers and highlighting the importance of diversity in driving innovation.

History of International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was officially established by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 70/212, passed on December 22, 2015. The resolution declared February 11 as the official day to recognize the critical role that women and girls play in science and technology and to encourage their participation in these fields.

Role of Women in Science and Technology

Women have played a transformative role in scientific advancements across various fields. Their contributions in medicine, engineering, space exploration, and artificial intelligence have led to groundbreaking discoveries. For instance:

• Marie Curie: Discovered radium and polonium, pioneering cancer treatments.
• Rosalind Franklin: Played a crucial role in discovering DNA structure.
• Kalpana Chawla: First woman of Indian origin in space.
• Katherine Johnson: NASA mathematician who helped in space missions.
• Jennifer Doudna: Co-developer of CRISPR gene-editing technology.

Despite these contributions, women in STEM still face obstacles like gender bias and a lack of funding for research. Encouraging women’s participation in science will lead to diverse perspectives and innovative solutions for global challenges.

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Timeline of Women in Science in India

Women in India have made remarkable contributions to science and technology. Here’s a timeline highlighting key milestones:

• Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi: First Indian woman to earn a Western medical degree from the U.S. in 1886.
• Kadambini Ganguly: First woman to gain admission to Calcutta Medical College (1884), becoming South Asia's first female doctor.
• Edavaleth Kakkat Janaki Ammal: Renowned botanist, first director of the Central Botanical Laboratory (1952), and Padma Shri recipient.
• Anna Mani: First woman in India’s Meteorological Department, contributed to solar radiation, ozone, and wind energy.
• Rajeshwari Chatterjee: Pioneered microwave engineering, first woman engineer at IISc, and built India’s first microwave lab.
• Tessy Thomas: The first woman scientist to head a missile project in India123. She was the Project Director for the Agni IV and V missiles.
• Asima Chatterjee: An organic chemist and the first woman to be awarded a Doctor of Science by an Indian University.

Image Credit: Vigyan Vidushi (Vigyan Prasar)

Government Initiatives to Promote Women and Girls in Science

The Indian government has introduced several initiatives to promote women and girls in science. These programs aim to provide financial aid, mentorship, and opportunities for women in STEM fields:

• KIRAN (Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing): Launched in 2014-15, this scheme provides opportunities for women scientists to advance in their academic and administrative careers.
• Vigyan Jyoti Programme: Launched in 2019, this initiative supports girls from class 9 through the post-doctorate level to pursue higher education and careers in STEM. 
• WISE-KIRAN (Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN) Scheme: This scheme is a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by women in science and technology
• CURIE (Consolidation of University Research for Innovation and Excellence): Provides support to women's institutions for establishing advanced research infrastructure to enhance research facilities and improve R&D activities in S&T.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025 is an opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements and address challenges in STEM fields. Encouraging girls to pursue careers in science will lead to a more inclusive and progressive future.

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