The Capital of Women and Girls in Science

The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) has always been an organization with an vision for the future and will continue this tradition of service and commitment for the benefit of the people and the planet. Among its initiatives, since 2016 RASIT has worked closely with United Nations (UN) Member States, UN agencies, inter-governmental organizations (IGOs), and civil society to commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, and to document its impact on the empowerment of women and girls in science.

Evaluations of the impact of the 2016-2019 International Days of Women and Girls in Science, as well as expert consultation on the future of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, all concluded that the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) should consider launching an additional initiative to achieve equality and diversity, and inclusion in science, technology, and innovation by 2030 and beyond.

Based on these conclusions - and consistent with RASIT’s vision and mission – RASIT’s Executive Board has established “The Capital of Women and Girls in Science” Initiative.

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Who is Who?

The Selection Committee will select the country/countries to be designated the World “Capital of Women and Girls in Science”.

The number of Countries holding the title each year (‘the year of the title’) shall not exceed three (3) countries, representing different global regions.

The title “Capital Country” is for one year. Countries may hold the designation of Capital Country ONCE during the period of the Initiative.

If more than one country is awarded the title in a particular year, countries designated for the same year may seek to develop links between their programs. The designation of Capital Country will be awarded irrespective of the size of a country.

The Selection Committee will use a multi-step selection process that will involve finalizing selection criteria, identifying a shortlist of candidates, thorough evaluation of candidates against the selection criteria, and then selecting the finalist for the designation.

Evaluation and selection of the Capital Country(ies) will be made using a set of evaluation criteria developed by the Selection Committee, such as:

• Level of science activity.

• Equality of payment systems.

• Funding for research conducted by female scientists.

• Funding for female entrepreneurs/CEOs of life sciences start-up companies.

• Contribution to the long-term strategy of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Science.

• Steps taken to achieving United Nations 2030 Development Agenda and its 17 global goals.

• The country’s plans to strengthen the capacity of the STI and creative sectors, including developing long-term links between the scientific, cultural, economic, and social sectors.

• The envisaged long-term scientific, cultural, social and economic impact, including urban development, that the title would have on the nominated country.

ANNOUNCING THE CAPITAL COUNTRY

The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) and the Selection Committee will announce the designation of a Country in a high-level press conference in the City of New York, USA.

At the end of the year’s long program, RASIT and the Selection Committee will award RASIT’s highest medal(s) – the HRH Prince Mohammad bin King Faisal (I) El-Hashemite Medal of Science, Technology, and Innovation -- to outstanding woman and girl in science as well as in a designated Capital Country/Countries. The awards ceremony will be held at the end of the title year.

The Capital Country/Countries may consider the following when planning their activities during the period of their designation:
• Scope and quality of activities featuring women and girls in science
• Scope and quality of events promoting the United Nations 2030 Development Agenda and highlighting the common aspects of STI as well as prospect integration of socio-economic development themes without leaving anyone behind,
• Scope and quality of activities promoting the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the role women in science playing in achieving it
• Strategic activities to attract the interest of a broad international public
• Involvement of STI and creative sectors, to develop long-term links between the scientific, cultural, economic, and social sectors
• Combine cultural heritage and traditional art forms with new, innovative and experimental scientific expressions
• Involvement of local communities, private sectors, schools, universities, civil societies, and relevant bodies in the preparation of the program(s) and the implementation of the action and
• Creation of new and sustainable opportunities for a wide range of people from around the world to attend or participate in activities. RASIT has a special interest in opportunities/programs that include and are accessible to young people, volunteers, marginalized and disadvantaged minorities, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.

The Capital of Women & Girls in Science

It is all about

Advancement in Science and Education

What is the Capital of Women and Girls in Science?

Who is Who

Selection Committee

The Process

Designation of the World's Capital

The Title Goes to

Announcement

INTERNATIONAL COMMITMENT

Planning Activities

The Selection Committee

The World's Capital
Designation

The Capital Country International Commitment