By Jovana Cvorovic

At the Center for Desert Agriculture (CDA), we recognise the immense potential of women and girls in shaping the future of science and innovation. As they represent half of the world’s population, they also embody half of its potential. Gender equality is not just a fundamental human right; it's also essential for fostering peaceful societies and driving sustainable development.

Challenges in STEM

Despite the pivotal role of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields in driving national economies, achieving gender equality within these domains remains a significant challenge globally. Statistics are alarming:

• Women, on average, receive smaller research grants compared to their male counterparts. Although they constitute 33.3% of all researchers, only 12% of members of national science academies are women.
• In fields such as artificial intelligence, women represent only one in five professionals (22%).
• Despite the growing demand for skills in technological fields, women account for just 28% of engineering graduates and 40% of graduates in computer science and informatics.
• Female researchers often face shorter, less well-paid careers, encounter underrepresentation in high-profile journals, and experience obstacles in career advancement.

Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science

On February 11th, the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, advocating for full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. It's an opportunity to highlight the achievements of women scientists, promote diversity in STEM fields, and address the gender gap in scientific research and innovation.

At CDA, we proudly honour and celebrate the remarkable women who are the driving force behind our center's success. Through our dedication to promoting gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, we aim to create an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to excel in science and innovation.

Join us in recognising and supporting women and girls in science, as we work together to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.