International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Women and Girls in Science: A Longstanding Educational Tradition within the SNJM
The commitment of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) to the scientific education of young people dates back many years. Archives and exhibitions devoted to the education of girls reveal the breadth and richness of the subjects taught as early as the 19th century.
As early as 1850, the curriculum developed by Mother Véronique of the Crucifix gave a prominent place to the sciences, including geography, botany, physics, and chemistry. This forward-looking educational vision helped spark curiosity and nurture the scientific spirit of countless young girls.
An International Day to Encourage Scientific Vocations
Established by the United Nations, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science aims to encourage women and girls to pursue studies and careers in scientific fields. This initiative responds to a concerning reality: according to UNESCO statistics, only 30% of female students choose programs related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in higher education.
Awareness-Raising Activities Around the World
To mark this day, numerous awareness-raising activities and events are organized worldwide. The World Federation of Scientific Workers, in collaboration with UNESCO, is hosting a day of roundtable discussions highlighting the positive impact of inclusivity in scientific environments.
Speakers from diverse backgrounds will share personal testimonies, evidence-based data, and practical measures that have helped reduce gender gaps in four key sectors:
- health research,
- cybersecurity,
- artificial intelligence,
- scientific entrepreneurship.
Discussions will also focus on the conditions that enabled these successes and on ways to adapt and replicate best practices in other contexts.
👉 This event is open to everyone, either in person in France or online, through registration available on the UNESCO website.
Inspiring Initiatives in Canada and Quebec
In Canada, several organizations highlight this day, including the Montreal Science Centre and the National Research Council of Canada, which regularly offer educational and awareness activities.
Among recent initiatives is the creation of a guide for conducting accessible scientific experiments, jointly developed by the Faculty of Science at Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) and the Montreal Science Centre.
The Faculty of Science at UQAM also features profiles of women scientists on its website (in French only), while the Government of Canada provides a wide range of resources and inspiring profiles showcasing the journeys of women engaged in science.
Promoting Equality and Empowerment through Science
Beyond celebration, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science seeks to promote gender equality and support the empowerment of women and girls.
For the United Nations, the contribution of women in science is essential not only to global economic development, but also to the achievement of all Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
By promoting access to science for women and girls, this day underscores that equality is a key driver in building a more innovative, equitable, and sustainable future.