February 11th is not just any date; it is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day that invites us to reflect on the crucial role that women play in the scientific field . This commemorative day, declared by the ^United Nations General Assembly, is a well-deserved recognition of the work and contributions of women in science ^; it also reminds us that the gender gap still persists and that concrete steps must be taken to close it.

Along the same lines, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) made a strong call: to close the gender gap in science, making female scientists visible as role models for new generations ² .

Women have proven to be key players in the advancement of knowledge in fundamental areas such as health and the environment, to name just two pillars of the Sustainable Development Agenda. Without our vision and talent, progress in these fields simply would not be the same.

It is essential to turn our attention to schools. We must open educational pathways so that girls can explore science from an early age, with the aim of dismantling gender stereotypes and biases in science by increasing the visibility of role models and fostering innovative strategies and initiatives. 

 From my experience in the pharmaceutical sector, I witness the invaluable impact that women have, not only in strategic decision-making, but also in the research and development of medicines and innovations for the benefit of patients.

This is especially relevant for the health of women and girls, who in many low-income countries face a greater burden of disease and morbidity, so ensuring greater diversity in science translates into more inclusive research, with solutions that respond to the needs of the entire population and contribute new perspectives, creativity and talent ^{1 and 3} .

We cannot afford to continue losing talent due to gender barriers. Science needs all available bright minds, regardless of who they are. It is everyone's responsibility to invest in an education that inspires girls to dream of becoming scientists, through policies that support women in their careers, and with a society that values ​​their contributions.

The effort and excellence of our girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields should be rewarded through scholarships, awards, and other incentives. Resources should also be allocated to extracurricular programs in these areas to extend learning beyond the classroom. Parents and caregivers should be involved to dispel scientific misconceptions. By promoting truly inclusive science, we will see a sustainable and equitable future for all.

By: Lucila Mouro

Senior business leader in the pharmaceutical industry

Sources:

1.      United Nations. International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Women in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability.  Available at https://www.un.org/es/observances/women-and-girls-in-science-day . Last accessed February 2025.

2.      UNESCO. UNESCO's call to action to close the gender gap in science. Available athttps://www.unesco.org/en/science-technology-and-innovation/cta?hub=66635 . Last accessed February 2025.

3.      World Economic Forum. From the boardroom to the consulting room, we need women in the pharmaceutical sector. Available at https://www.weforum.org/stories/2020/03/pharma-healthcare-curing-gender-bias/ Last accessed February 2025.