STEM includes science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Those are the roots of innovation, economic progress and development. However, in Pakistan, stereotypes and gender biases still grip the society, marginalising women and limiting their opportunities. However, women in the country have not let this stop them from progressing. Despite the difficulties, Pakistani women are still making it big in the STEM world, which defies all those biases.
The STEM Gender Gap in Pakistan
The gap began very early in STEM education. Science and mathematics were not considered too appealing to girls, and the notion was set that they should ideally pursue more “traditional” careers, such as teaching or medicine, according to society. Today, women only hold 4.9% of engineering supervisory positions in Pakistan, a stark indicator of barriers against them. The underrepresentation is not an issue of equality but of lost potential and progress.
Despite all barriers, many women in Pakistan have made a success of themselves in the sciences. Examples include pioneers such as Arfa Karim, who became the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional, and Dr. Nergis Mavalvala, the physicist who played a part in measuring gravitational waves. The list of pioneers continues with Asma Zaheer, a winner of the IBM Award, and Mariam Sultana, Pakistan’s first female astrophysicist. These women are setting barriers while becoming an inspiration to future generations.
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Change Driver Initiatives in Pakistan
To bridge the Pakistani STEM gender gap, many groups and initiatives exist. Programmes provided by UNICEF, British Council, Carfex Education and even events like Lahore Science Mela provide platforms and encouragement for talent in women in Pakistan. Organisations such as Girls in Tech Pakistan and STEM Women provide mentorship opportunities, networking services and scholarships to help women succeed in their careers in the STEM industries. Such interventions are essential in changing perceptions and creating an inclusive environment.
Empowering women in STEM is no longer a quest for justice; it is a matter of unlocking the full potential of a nation. If the government invests in STEM education for girls challenges outdated stereotypes and provides opportunities on an equal basis, there is a veritable wealth of untapped talent that Pakistan will be able to harness. With continued efforts on the road forward, the prospects for women in STEM in Pakistan have never looked brighter. In simple terms, if support women in STEM, you empower a whole nation.
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