On the occasion of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu highlighted the vital role women play in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), reaffirming the Maldives government’s commitment to empowering women and girls in these critical areas.
In a message shared today, President Muizzu expressed his pride in the growing contributions made by women in science and their ability to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to sustainable development. He stressed the importance of expanding opportunities for women in STEM to ensure a prosperous and inclusive future for society.
“On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we honour the significant contributions and pioneering achievements made by women and girls in science,” the President’s message read. “This day further strengthens our resolve to increase the participation of women in STEM, to ensure equal opportunities and support for their growth and success, which would ultimately lead to the prosperity of society.”
The President emphasized that in an era of rapid technological transformation, the leadership of women scientists and technologists will be critical to driving solutions and innovations. As the Maldives strives for development, particularly in the digital economy, women’s contributions in these fields will be pivotal to the country’s growth, he noted.
The President also spotlighted the country’s efforts to promote gender equality in education, pointing to scholarships, student loan schemes, and first-degree grants that have made STEM courses more accessible to women and girls. He highlighted that the Maldives has successfully achieved the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of closing the gender gap in education, with more women enrolling in STEM programs through these initiatives.
Further reinforcing the country’s commitment to gender equality, the President shared that the Maldives is investing in vocational training by establishing vocational labs and expanding career guidance programs. These efforts are designed to ensure that women and girls have greater access to educational and vocational opportunities, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in the workforce.
With an eye on the future, President Muizzu outlined the Maldives’ vision to become a developed nation by 2040. He explained that the digital economy, with women at the forefront of its development, would play a key role in achieving this goal, contributing to the nation’s GDP and fostering global competitiveness.
“Together, through targeted initiatives and inclusive policies, we are fostering an environment where women can thrive in the field of science, and position the Maldives as a leader of equity and excellence for women and girls,” he said.
To mark the occasion, President Muizzu also took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, expressing his admiration for the contributions of women and girls in science, and reiterating the government’s commitment to a more gender-equal society. His message underscored the crucial role women will continue to play in shaping the future of the Maldives, particularly in the rapidly advancing world of science and technology.
