Promoting STEM Education and Women’s Participation in Technology

While all fields of learning hold equal value for societal development, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) plays a unique role at societal, family, and personal levels. As societies progress through industrial, IT, internet, and AI-driven revolutions, STEM skills have become essential for both economic growth and individual success.

Developed countries prioritize STEM education, offering robust school and higher education frameworks and welcoming global STEM talent. Beyond academia and professional careers, numerous vocational skills also depend on STEM knowledge. As the world transitions toward a skills-focused economy, strengthening STEM education is increasingly vital.

Indian Women in STEM: Achievements and Progress

India has a rich history of women excelling in STEM fields, with notable achievements in science, research, and technology. According to the University Grants Commission (UGC), over 40% of STEM enrollments in India are women, with 10% participation in start-ups. Additionally, 35% of students in computer science engineering courses are girls, as reported by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).

While these statistics reflect progress, challenges remain in ensuring broader and sustained participation of women in STEM fields.

Barriers to Women’s Participation in STEM

Several factors hinder girls and women from pursuing STEM education and careers:

1. Stereotypes: Persistent beliefs that STEM fields are “too tough” for girls discourage their interest and confidence.
2. Access Challenges: Limited availability of nearby, safe schools and colleges with science streams often forces girls to compromise their educational choices.
3. Rigid Educational Systems: Early selection of academic streams limits flexibility and restricts girls from exploring diverse interests.
4. Economic Constraints: Financially challenged families may prioritize STEM education for boys over girls.
5. Cultural Norms: Expectations for women to prioritize homemaking and family responsibilities often deter them from pursuing ambitious STEM careers.

Government Initiatives to Encourage Women in STEM

To address these challenges, several government programs and initiatives have been introduced to support women in STEM:

• Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN): A scheme by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to enhance women’s participation in science and technology.
• Pragati Scholarship: An AICTE initiative offering financial support to women pursuing technical education.
• Tech Saksham Program (TSP): Aims to empower women with technical skills for careers in technology.

Additional Scholarships and Programs for Women

1. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Focuses on improving child sex ratios and ensuring equal access to quality education for girls.
2. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: A savings scheme encouraging parents to save for their daughters’ education and marriage.
3. CBSE Udaan Scholarship: Assists economically disadvantaged girls in pursuing engineering degrees.
4. National Scheme of Incentives to Girls for Secondary Education: Supports girls from SC/ST backgrounds aged 14–18 years.
5. Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (SABLA Yojana): Offers life skills education, nutrition, and healthcare access to adolescent girls.
6. Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya Scheme: Establishes residential schools for marginalized girls at the upper primary level.

The Road Ahead

Promoting STEM education and ensuring equitable participation for women require systemic efforts, including:

• Combating stereotypes and fostering interest in STEM fields from an early age.
• Improving access to quality schools and colleges for girls.
• Providing financial support and scholarships tailored to women in STEM.
• Encouraging families and communities to support women’s education and career aspirations.

Strengthening women’s participation in STEM fosters not only individual empowerment but also societal progress. By addressing these challenges and encouraging skill development, India can build a generation of women who contribute significantly to innovation, technology, and economic growth.