Women in STEM report

Women in STEM is a report released by IWWAGE, LEAD, KREA University and TQH. It mainly highlights the challenges and opportunities in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics fields of India. 

Over the last few years, many women have stepped into this field but left eventually. As per the AISHE report, 43.2% of students in UG, PG and PhD programmes were women. This percentage is much higher then the rest of the world. 

Despite this population entering the fields, the retention rate is quite low due to several struggles. The metaphor that defines this is ‘leaky pipelines’. It illustrates the gradual reduction of women in STEM fields as they move from entry and employment to leadership. 

Key takeaways from women in STEM report

• AI and Automation can close the gender pay gap and give women transferable skills. Enabling more lasting women in STEM. 
• Women in science in India have a 28% higher chance of getting employed compared to non-technical subjects
• Critical thinking skills developed can help improve problem-solving skills. 
• The government is currently working on addressing the lack of women through the GATI charter. It is a voluntary, signatory charter for research institutes to promote inclusion and diversity. 

Recommendations in the report

• Interventions must begin early at primary labels to develop interest towards STEM in girls.
• Affirmative action and specific provisions can make space for women in STEM
• Mandating charters can improve flexibility and create a safe workforce to ensure retention.
• Women reentering the workforce must have targeted support through internship programs. This will help them transition back smoothly.

Read the entire report here: