Tanzania is preparing to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of teamwork between the public and private sectors. This collaboration is essential to ensure that women and girls have a significant presence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The Deputy Minister for Education, Omary Kipanga, shared this message in Dodoma, underlining the government's strong commitment to supporting various stakeholders.

He pointed out that global data shows that women and girls are greatly underrepresented in science fields compared to their male counterparts, which makes it difficult to achieve gender equality in education and employment.

To address this issue, the United Nations General Assembly created a program in 2015 to mark February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Kipanga explained. He added that gender equality is a key factor in reaching the international development goals, such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Deputy Minister emphasized that the commemoration is an opportunity to inspire women and girls to pursue STEM careers, which will benefit them personally and society as a whole.

He stressed the importance of collaboration, noting that solving women’s and girls’ issues requires the involvement of everyone, whether from the public or private sectors.

“It’s crucial to encourage current and future generations of girls to take an interest in science, dispel any misconceptions, and provide equal opportunities for education and career growth,” Kipanga said. He also highlighted the need for strong mentorship and support systems to help women and girls who want to become successful scientists.

Kipanga called on all members of society to support the inclusion of women and girls in science and technology, recognizing the role of parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community leaders in inspiring girls to pursue STEM. He concluded by expressing his support for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts to increase female participation in these fields.

Since 2021, Tanzania has been marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that women and girls contribute to the progress of science and technology.