Opinion| E.S.
Although the relentless call for gender equality has gone a long way in slowly changing the gender dynamics formed by backward socio-cultural ideas enough to give women their own space and recognition in society, the fight is far from over. Over the years, there has been immense growth in the number of women pursuing courses and careers in medicine and engineering. However, despite momentous breakthroughs and inventions in the past decade, science, particularly STEM, is a field that remains male-dominated, with women comprising only 28% of its entire workforce worldwide.
But why do we lack women in STEM? According to the American Association of University Women, the society we live in today still clings to the stereotype that science is masculine. This discourages younger generations of women to engage in STEM, consequently worsening gender disproportion in the field. The structure of the society we live in today also plays a big role. In an environment that has long since revolved around the patriarchy, institutions such as colleges, universities, and even workplaces find it hard to renew and adjust their systems to create more spaces to cater to and accommodate women. This leaves girls and younger generations with fewer role models to inspire and motivate them to pursue a career in STEM.
Opening science to more women solves not only the problem of gender disparity. It goes beyond the problems presented by principles and equality. Giving women opportunities to thrive in STEM helps reinforce economic security and alleviate gender pay gap issues. It warrants a diverse and talented STEM manpower pool and prevents biases not only in the field but also in the products and data they produce. For inventions to be guaranteed safe and functional, these must be tested not only in men but women as well. Although science is a field that is highly sensitive to biases, it is not uncommon for most researchers to establish men as the personification of the norm. Getting more women involved in science creates more engaging conversations and consequently, more diversified and creative perspectives in the field.
Finally, the gender imbalance in science entails two things. First, it signifies that there is much to yet uncover from the scientific talent base. With around half of the world’s population being female, this humongous pool of untapped potential will be wasted if women and young girls aren’t given enough opportunities and motivation to lend their intelligence and unique perspectives to the never-ending quest for knowledge. Second, innovations in STEM can only go so far if gender remains a hindrance and an off-topic. From the sheer number alone, the faster pace of scientific progress will be inevitable once more women are allowed to join the narrative. Especially in a country where brain drain remains a problem due to the lack of support, industries, and opportunities for researchers in the Philippines, we need all hands on deck — we need more and more scientists to stand in solidarity with each other to galvanize action and motivate the floundering state of our S&T sector, and we need the voice and representation of women in this barricade.
It is a universally-acknowledged truth that science is essential in building the world’s future. However, if we want to progress and move further to create a better society for the next generations, we must let women take their rightful place in the field.
