‘SCIENCE’ is a simple seven-letter word that ruled history, and the present and is creating a dynamic future. It is a tool of utmost power and currently a massive requirement of the world too. It builds the path for mankind to explore the world while explaining discoveries and expanding cures.
The contribution of women and girls to utilize this unique element is indeed significant and thus we celebrate the “International Day of Women and Girls in Science” which was initiated by The United Nations General Assembly in 2015, as an opportunity to encourage girls and women’s full and equal access to involve and engage in science. This day also emphasizes the fact that gender equality must be valued and treasured, as a solution for the gender gap that needs immense attention. It celebrates the contributions made by women and girls who have worked as students, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of science and the expansion of human understanding and knowledge.
The theme of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science for the year 2023 is “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.
History bears evidence of the immense contribution of women and girls in uplifting the segment of science. Marie Curie who was a physicist and chemist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, the first person and the only woman to win a Nobel Prize twice, and the only person to win a Nobel Prize in two scientific fields. Ada Lovelace who was an English mathematician and writer, was mainly known for her work on Charles Babbage’s proposed mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine, and is considered the first computer programmer. Rosalind Franklin who was a chemist and X-ray crystallographer performed her renowned works focusing on the understanding of the molecular structures of DNA, RNA, viruses, coal, and graphite, is best known for her contributions to the discovery of the molecular structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). These are only a few examples of from the pages of history while the engagement and contribution of women and girls in science run through the pages of the present too.
As citizens of this global village, let us unite together to encourage and appreciate the efforts put in by women and girls who play the roles of scientists, researchers, and all significant roles in the field of science.
