The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) called for equal opportunities for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to address the "persistent gender gap" and unlock their innovation potential.

While women have made significant strides in increasing their presence in higher education, there remains a challenge in their representation across various Science and Technology (S&T) fields.

“A significant gender gap has persisted throughout the years at all levels of STEM, and women have made tremendous progress toward increasing participation in higher education,” said Dr. Diana Ignacio of DOST during this year's celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Monday, Feb. 12.

Ignacio cited data from the United Nations (UN) to support this claim, revealing that women are typically given smaller research grants as compared to their male colleagues.

In addition, while women make up 33.3 percent of all researchers, only 12 percent of members of National Science Academies are women. However, in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence (AI), only 22 percent of professionals are women.

The shortage of skills in many technological fields, women account for only 28 percent of engineering graduates and 40 percent of computer science and informatics graduates.

Also, female researchers tend to have shorter, less-paid careers in high-profile journals —this inequality shows that this not only hinders the progress of women but also deprives the world of their "untapped talent" and innovative contributions.

Moreover, by recognizing the importance of addressing this issue, the UN General Assembly established the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015 to promote full, equal access and participation in science and technology.

“Women and girls play a critical role in science and technology communities and there is a need to strengthen their participation,” she said.

It is crucial to strengthen the involvement of women and girls in these communities, as they play a critical role in driving innovation and shaping the future of S&T.

“Women must realize that they have a place in STEM, and the right to share and lead in the S&T development,” she added.

Although there is still a “long way” to go to achieve full equality of rights and opportunities as warned by UN Women, the DOST highlighted that through bridging the gender gap and providing equal opportunities in health, economic resources, and participation in political life, it can unlock the potential of women and girls to a more inclusive and prosperous society.