International Day of Women and Girls in Science
On Feb. 11, Saint Louis University-Madrid joins a global celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science — an initiative led by UNESCO and UN Women to promote full and equal access to science for women and girls worldwide.
This day serves not only as a tribute to the countless women who have made transformative contributions across all scientific disciplines but also as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of knowledge must be inclusive and equitable. By highlighting their creativity, determination, and achievements, we affirm that gender equality in science is essential for social progress, innovation, and global peace.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 and has since become a worldwide movement that encourages institutions, educators, and communities to recognize and support the participation of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Despite growing awareness, women remain underrepresented in many scientific fields, facing structural barriers, stereotypes, and limited access to research opportunities and leadership roles. This initiative addresses those challenges by advocating for inclusion at all levels of education and professional development — ensuring that girls not only enter but also thrive in scientific careers.
Two of the core goals of this celebration are: first, to make visible the work of women dedicated to STEM disciplines, thereby creating female role models who can inspire new generations of scientists; and second, to examine the factors that hinder the participation of women in STEM, proposing practices and policies that support gender equity in education, research, and professional environments. When young girls see scientists who look like them, who share their curiosity and drive, they learn that science welcomes their voices and that their ideas can shape the future.
At Saint Louis University-Madrid’s Division of Science and Engineering, this date holds particular significance. Faculty members, staff, and students come together to organize events, discussions, and presentations that reflect the spirit of the day. However, our celebration goes beyond a single day. It represents our ongoing commitment to creating a campus culture in which diversity is valued as a strength. We believe that science advances most effectively when everyone is invited to participate. At SLU-Madrid, we understand that the empowerment of women and girls in science benefits all of humanity — fueling creativity, deepening understanding, and driving the scientific advancements that will define our shared future.
In addition to raising awareness, this day serves as a catalyst for concrete action. Educational programs, scholarship opportunities, and mentorship initiatives are increasingly being developed worldwide to create supportive environments for women in STEM. Moreover, fostering collaboration between diverse scientific communities helps break down biases and encourages innovative problem-solving by incorporating multiple perspectives. Institutions like Saint Louis University-Madrid actively contribute to this global effort by promoting interdisciplinary research and encouraging young women to explore emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biotechnology. These efforts not only prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow but also reinforce the principle that diversity is a key driver of excellence and innovation in science.
By working side by side, organizing events, sharing ideas, and supporting one another, our community continues to reaffirm an enduring truth: when women and girls prosper in STEM, we all advance together.