Today is UNESCO's International Day of Women and Girls in Science. In the DRC, women scientists have set up camp in Matadi, the capital of Kongo Central province. The Women in Research and Development (WR&D) unit of the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Kinshasa is organizing the second edition of the Roundtable of Women and Girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Scheduled for February 11-12, this symposium is being held at the Hirhode Hotel.

Women in science celebrated across the planet

In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This is an opportunity for the WR&D unit to highlight women scientists. Various activities are planned for these two days. These will range from conferences to visits to STEM schools, including screenings and visits to stands. All of these events will be led by researchers and professors from various universities and research centers in the DRC.

The kickoff was given at 9:00 a.m., with a welcome address from the Coordinator of the WR&D research unit, Professor Céline Sikulisimwa. This was followed by the respective interventions of the RF-STEM Delegate, the Secretary General for Research at UNIKIN, Prof. Yandju, and the Minister of State and Minister of National Education and New Citizenship, represented by her advisor in charge of relations with the ESU. The end of the first day will be marked by a visit to the stands. It should be noted that the participants were treated to the report of the first round table as well as the presentation of the STEM study project.

Women in science: an opportunity to protect the planet

According to international organizations, STEM and innovation play a role in eliminating poverty and protecting the planetSTEM occupies a special place in international commitments and agendas, particularly those relating to inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning, aimed at gender equality and the empowerment of women.

The Sustainable Development Goals agreed by the United Nations include specific targets requiring countries to increase access to STEM and technology education and reduce gender disparities..

Ultimately…

Advances in STEM have already led to improvements in many aspects of life such as health, agriculture, infrastructure and renewable energy.STEM education is also key to preparing students for the workforce, enabling entry into the in-demand STEM careers of tomorrow.. Good luck to women in science.