The involvement of women and girls in science and in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-related topics has long been a topic of concern, and in too many countries is still a significant problem. Moreover, ensuring access to education and the fulfilment of all education-related goals are a crucial part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Encouraging and facilitating this for marginalised groups – especially women, who for centuries have been denied equal education opportunities – is crucial both in terms of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the fairness and prosperity of our own societies.
Malta is happy to continue to support initiatives which aim to address this issue, whether in terms of country-specific or even structural factors that prevent larger numbers of girls and women from fully participating in science and having their achievements recognised. In parallel with the importance being given by Malta to the Women, Peace and Security Agenda, we are of the firm conviction that more needs to be done to ensure the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women and girls in science.
In this regard, Malta was honoured to have been designated as the World Capital for Women and Girls in Science for the inaugural year 2023 – 2024, by RASIT. It was a pleasure for the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade to have worked with local partners, namely the University of Malta and the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation to organise activities to commemorate this year, while building on best practices already in place, including the work being done by the Science Centre (Pembroke), the University of Malta, MDIA and Esplora and to further the participation of women and girls in science.
A number of activities and best practices were shared earlier on in the report, and Malta is willing to support other states to share more information about the initiatives to enable wide implementation.
WAY FORWARD
Looking ahead, Malta will pursue initiatives that have already started, including the “She Can…” exhibition that will continue to tour various schools, and the videos shared on various platforms. The Girls4STEM summer camp will be held again in August 2024. Participants this year will be both girls and boys while as last year mentors, animators and professionals will all be female. This year’s summer camp will be titled Tween4STEAM. Malta will continue its efforts to ensure that women and girls are empowered and given the space to pursue careers in STEM. Our engagement continues both locally and internationally.
