The International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026 shows that science and gender equality must go hand in hand to build a better, more creative future.Even though women have made big contributions to science, they are still not getting enough attention in fields like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This day is a push to fix that problem—not just talk about it, but make real improvements.
This day happens every year on February 11. It encourages governments, schools, teachers, and everyone else to help women and girls get equal opportunities in science.
What is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science?
This day is a worldwide effort led by UNESCO and UN-Women, with help from universities, leaders, and groups around the world.
It was made official in 2015 when the UN passed a resolution to celebrate it on February 11 each year. The main goal is to make sure women and girls have the same chance to learn, research, and create in science.
This day also celebrates the important role women and girls play in science and technology. It aims to inspire the next generation by sharing stories of successful women in science and encouraging more to follow.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026 Theme
From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap
The 2026 theme shows a move from just talking about the problem to taking real action.
It’s not enough to know there’s an issue—change needs real solutions and everyone’s help.
This year’s focus is on how new technologies and innovation can either widen gaps or help include everyone.
Some main areas to focus on include:
- Health Research: Making sure women are part of medical studies so treatments work well for everyone.
- Cybersecurity: Getting more women into this field to bring different ideas to digital safety.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Fixing the lack of women in AI to prevent biased systems and decisions.
- Scientific Entrepreneurship: Helping women scientists start their own companies, get patents, and create big ideas.
These areas show how women’s leadership is key to shaping the future of science and tech.
Why the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026 Matters
Even though progress is happening, there are still big gaps:
- Women make up only 33.3% of researchers around the world.
- Just 35% of STEM graduates are women.
- In AI, only 22% of professionals are women.
- Women get 28% of engineering degrees and about 40% of computer science degrees.
- In G20 countries, women hold 22% of STEM jobs and only 10% of leadership roles in STEM.
These numbers show why this day is still very important. When women are left out of science, ideas become limited, and big problems are harder to solve.
Building a More Inclusive Scientific Future
Closing the gender gap in STEM isn’t just about helping women—it’s about making sure everyone benefits from science.
Science and technology affect healthcare, the environment, the economy, and the digital world. Having a wide range of voices in science makes sure innovations meet the needs of all people. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026 is both a chance to look at how far we’ve come and a reminder that real change needs ongoing effort, support, and responsibility. By moving from vision to real action, we can create a world where women and girls are not just part of science—they are equal leaders shaping the future.
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