Every year on 11 February, International Day of Women and Girls in Science shines a spotlight on the vital role women and girls play in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
It’s a day about celebration, yes — but also about visibility, opportunity, and making sure the next generation knows that science is very much for them.
Why this day matters
Despite progress, women and girls remain under-represented in many scientific fields, particularly in engineering, computing, physics and advanced research roles. According to data highlighted by UNESCO, women make up less than a third of the global scientific research workforce. That gap isn’t about ability — it’s about access, encouragement, and long-standing cultural barriers.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science exists to challenge those barriers head-on.
From pioneers to present day
Women have always been part of scientific discovery, even when history books didn’t give them full credit. Names like Ada Lovelace, often regarded as the world’s first computer programmer, and Marie Curie remind us that women have shaped modern science in profound ways.
Today, women and girls are leading breakthroughs in medicine, climate science, artificial intelligence, space exploration and biotechnology — often while still having to fight for equal recognition and funding.
Inspiring girls early
One of the most powerful ways to close the gender gap in science is early encouragement. When girls see scientists who look like them, talk like them, and share their backgrounds, science stops feeling distant or “not for me”.
Schools, families, youth groups and media all play a role here. Celebrating curiosity, supporting maths and science confidence, and challenging stereotypes like “science is hard” or “science is for boys” can make a lifelong difference.
The UK perspective
Across the UK, organisations, schools and universities mark the day with workshops, talks, mentoring schemes and hands-on activities. From coding clubs and science fairs to lab open days, these events help girls see real-world pathways into STEM careers — not just in research, but in healthcare, environmental protection, technology, food science and beyond.
Why representation benefits everyone
This isn’t just about fairness — it’s about better science. Diverse teams bring wider perspectives, ask better questions, and design solutions that work for more people. When women and girls are excluded from science, society misses out on innovation, insight and talent.
Put simply: science is stronger when everyone has a seat at the lab bench.
How to mark the day
You don’t need a lab coat to get involved. You can:
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Share stories of women in science on social media
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Encourage girls see science as creative, practical and achievable
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Support STEM charities and education programmes
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Celebrate the women scientists, engineers and healthcare professionals in your own life
Looking ahead
International Day of Women and Girls in Science isn’t just about one day in February — it’s about building momentum all year round. By challenging outdated assumptions and championing equality in education and careers, we help ensure that future discoveries are shaped by all of humanity.
Because when women and girls thrive in science, everyone benefits.
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