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From school to R&D labs: let’s celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

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Designated by the United Nations as International Day of Women and Girls in Science, February 11 is an opportunity to reflect on the persistent gender gap characterising female participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines, with the aim of achieving full equality of opportunities for men and women in scientific careers.

Although parity in first and second level education has been achieved – with even a majority of women graduates compared to men at European level – there are still open challenges to closing the gender gap in specific fields of study. Statistics indicate that, globally, less than 40% of STEM graduates are women. The Italian trend is in line with the European and global average, though something is changing.

Indeed, according to the most recent (2022) data from the Ministry of Education and Merit , the number of female graduates in scientific, technological, engineering and mathematical subjects has increased over the last three years.

As part of its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, and in particular Gender Equality, IBSA Italy has invested – and will continue to do so – in bridging the gender gap and in building a new, more balanced model between genders and STEM careers.

As part of its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, and in particular Gender Equality, IBSA Italy has invested – and will continue to do so – in bridging the gender gap and in building a new, more balanced model between genders and STEM careers.

Today we want to celebrate the story of the women who have contributed to generating the success of IBSA Italy through an evocative photographic narrative of the passion and talent behind each of them. Each woman represents a unique chapter of determination and success, an example of how, through commitment and dedication, it is possible to turn a dream into reality, and emerge as leaders in one’s relevant scientific disciplines.

Looking at the future, IBSA Italy aims to continue to extend as much as possible the STEM stage to women. Investing in women and providing them with opportunities, support and resources accelerates innovation, helps build a more equal and diverse society and ensures that progress reflects the diversity and scope of women’s perspectives. Their and other colleagues’ experiences, portrayed in this new photo gallery, are a real opportunity for young girls who are considering STEM careers.

Thus, these life stories are not only examples of success, but also a manifesto of hope and inspiration for both today’s and next generation girls. The message they convey is simple and future-oriented: women can excel in all fields and significantly contribute, with competence and ability, to scientific progress and innovation. The road may be challenging, but possibilities are endless.