MARIA CORAZON M. MACALINO

The Department of Education (DepEd) has underscored the importance of involvement, diversity, and access of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field.

Recently, the agency gathered around 500 female learners and teachers to celebrate the 2024 International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Spearheaded by the External Partnerships Office- International Cooperation Office (EPS-ICO), the event featured activities promoting equality, science and technology, and environmental conservation. The event highlights student exhibitors who showcased their projects and inventions that won them awards in their schools.

The Deped urged educators and stakeholders to champion the cause of gender equality and build a future where every girl, every woman can reach for the stars and unleash their scientific potential.

It also underscored the significant shift of enrollees in the STEM programs of DepEd. In SDO Manila alone, 51% of STEM program enrollees are girls, signaling the narrowing of gender gaps in science and technology among girls and boys.

Additionally, the program also highlighted the efforts of DepEd partners in ensuring that girls were given the same importance, opportunities, and platforms in the male-dominated field.

Executives from partner organizations and agencies gave presentations on how their organizations and agencies can act as a springboard for female learners who wishes to pursue further education and careers in STEM.

-oOoThe author is a Teacher III at Bebe Anac Elementary School