Role In Science, Technology: Help more girls, women tear down barriers

GBNEWS24DESK//

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday urged the international community to provide opportunities and help more women and girls excel in science.

“It is unfortunate that women represent only 12 percent of scientists and 30 percent of researchers globally,” she said.

The premier said this in a video statement screened at the 8th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly, held at the United Nations Headquarters, New York, USA.

“Today, we celebrate the women and girls who are making important contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” she said.

Hasina urged women and girls to act as the agents of change themselves. “The women and girls in science and technology must remember that they are not alone. The steps they take would help open the door further for their sisters around the world,” she said.

She focused on her government’s steps for development of women in Bangladesh.

Turning to Bangladesh, the PM said, “I have made it a priority to have our women and girls lead in every sphere. Our women are doing very well in the field of research and higher education.”

She said scholarships are being given to girls to carry out research in agriculture, industry, health, science, art, information technology – all fields in Bangladesh.

The premier said her government has established science and technology universities across the country to give boys and girls easy access.

Hi-tech parks have created an inclusive environment where our girls can thrive alongside boys in the country, she added.

Hasina wished to see women and girls fulfil their potential for innovation and creativity in science. “We must bridge the gaps in opportunities available to them in developed and developing countries. We want our girls to have their full share in building smart, knowledge-based societies,” she went on.

The PM congratulated all the women and girls on this International Day of Women and Girls in Science.