“We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back” – Malala Yousafzai.

The above quote explains the importance of women participation in all the sectors of development in very simple words. However, there’s still not much of opportunities open for women. Even though statistically 43 percent of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates in India are women, when it comes to STEM jobs in India women compromise of a mere 14 percent. This clearly signifies how big of a gender gap still exists despite promoting the notion of women empowerment for more than a decade now nationally as well as globally. It is very important for this proportion to be balanced as it would not only bridge the gender gap but also improve the future of women while building a better foundation for our future.

CAUSES : Some of the major causes that leads to low participation of women in STEM jobs includes factors such as :

• Household Responsibilities – such as taking care of the family and dealing with household chores.
• Backward Thought Process – Thoughts such as women belong to house and kitchen and should study home science and technology is not a women’s cup of tea.
• Lack of Safe Environment – One of the major reasons why women and their families object to them working is due to worries regarding her safety regarding workplace harassment and molestation.
• Lack of Support – On a large account women don’t receive support from their families and life partners in pursuing a career which makes it difficult for them to work.

WAY FORWARD : To build the bridge of gender gap and to improve women’s future in STEM, a multi-stake holder approach is required.

• This problem need to be addressed at societal level as well as institutional level.
• First and foremost measures to change the stereotypical thinking of gender roles should be changed.
• Women education in STEM should be promoted and confidence in women regarding it should be build through early education.
• Educational institutions should encourage girls not only to take science at secondary and higher secondary level but also to pursue their career in STEM.
• Institutional advances should be made. There is an immediate need to invest in supporting infrastructure, incentivising institutions to promote gender equity, transparency in decision making etc. to bridge the persisting gender imbalance in STEM majors.
• This would not only help women become stronger but also benefit STEM sectors as well.

Although the situation have improved and is improving, we still have a long road ahead to truly establish an equilibrium.