Tanzania pushes for more female participation in STEM

DODOMA: As Tanzania prepares to join other countries in commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Tuesday, the East African nation has emphasized that collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial to ensuring that women and girls actively participate in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Deputy Minister for Education, Omary Kipanga, revealed this in Dodoma recently, stating that the government is fully supporting the participation of various stakeholders. He highlighted that global education and employment statistics indicate that women and girls are significantly underrepresented in science fields compared to men.

“This situation hinders efforts to achieve gender equality in education and employment. Therefore, in 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a programme to commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science and declared February 11 as its official observance,” he told reporters in the capital city.

Kipanga stated that Tanzania recognizes gender equality as a crucial aspect of achieving internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

He added that the commemoration provides an opportunity to encourage women and girls to pursue careers in STEM, thereby transforming their future and benefiting society as a whole.

On the importance of collaboration, the deputy minister stressed that women’s and girls’ issues are cross-cutting and therefore require the active participation and contribution of all stakeholders, regardless of whether they belong to the public or private sector.

“We need to inspire the current and future generations of girls to develop an interest in science subjects, eliminate misconceptions, and provide equal opportunities in education and career development. Additionally, we need strong mentorship and support systems to nurture the talents of women and girls who aspire to become outstanding scientists,” said Kipanga.

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He called on society as a whole to work together in encouraging the participation of women and girls in science and technology.

The deputy minister identified key groups that can play a vital role in ensuring that girls actively engage in STEM, including parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community leaders.

“We can shape the future of our nation by ensuring that women and girls contribute fully to the advancement of science and technology. Through this commemoration, I express my support for the efforts of the Sixth Phase Government, under Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, in increasing the participation of women and girls in science,” he stated.

Tanzania has been commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science since 2021.