Stem Needs A Level Playing Field
India is one of the few countries in the world that produces the most scientists and engineers since interest in STEM (Science, Technology Engineering, and Mathematics) has increased significantly in recent years. On a more global scale, only 17 women have won the Nobel Prize in physics, chemistry, or medicine since Marie Curie in 1903. This reflects the stark reality of women's representation in STEM. The problem of female underrepresentation is a complex, multifaceted issue – and a clear shift needs to happen. We need more representation and support, and we need to highlight role models.
STEM Needs Encouragement
One survey finding I found surprising is that more people don’t recognize the role bias and prejudice towards women and underrepresented racial minorities plays as a barrier to pursuing a strong STEM education. Additionally, 3M State of Science Index data found that nearly two-thirds of women across the world are leaving STEM positions because they do not receive enough support, and 84 per cent of respondents believe more needs to be done to encourage and keep women and girls engaged in STEM education.
It’s more important than ever that we aim to inspire girls at a young age by tapping into their pro-social goals and showing them that a STEM education is affordable and accessible so we can continue to encourage them to pursue these fields and become the innovators of tomorrow.
In fact, 84 per cent of the world says science companies would have a more positive impact on society if there was greater diversity and representation in STEM. To make that happen, we must provide access to resources, serve as mentors, and ensure that women and girls look up to role models in STEM leadership positions.
It is imperative to have role models who can use their scientific knowledge, technical expertise, professional background, and personal experience to advance science, and communicate the benefits of science and the importance of diversity in STEM fields.\
Creating Inventors and Innovators
The population of the world is estimated to reach 9 billion in just a few decades. We must unlock the secrets to a sustainable future, and we need all the innovation we can muster to solve the challenges that lie ahead of us. We cannot do that effectively if we don’t have a diverse pool of inventor, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
Observing the landscape as a woman in STEM, overall, there needs to be an equal opportunity for people of all genders, races, and backgrounds to become inventors and innovators. We have a lot of room for improvement as far as increasing representation is concerned – and the global public also agrees that we need to do more to achieve STEM equity.
As part of the 3M 2022 State of Science Index, our survey found most of the world agrees it’s important to increase DE&I in STEM fields, but we also acknowledge STEM equity needs significant work. These findings are worrisome because without increasing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) and providing equal access and opportunities to underrepresented minority groups, we cannot fuel the talent pipeline for years to come.
Developing a level playing field
Overall, we need to level the playing field for people of all genders, races, and backgrounds. While we are breaking down barriers, we still need diverse scientists to be more visible so that younger generations can say, “if I can see it, I can be it.” There’s still not enough people of colour and women in many of these fields.
I truly believe that greater diversity in the sciences will lead to greater impact – it’s why I’m so passionate about advocating for breaking down barriers and stereotypes and providing the necessary resources to help women, girls and racial minorities enter the field. As I always say: The world requires innovation. Innovation needs science. Science demands diversity. Diversity warrants equity.
_20241203190934_original_image_46.webp)
_20240903195420_original_image_47.webp)
