The Role of Women in STEM: Bridging the Gender Gap in Bangladesh

 

The Role of Women in STEM: Bridging the Gender Gap in Bangladesh

Introduction

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields have always been at the forefront of human progress, driving innovation, economic growth, and technological advancements. Yet, despite the significant strides made in these fields, women remain underrepresented in STEM professions globally. Bangladesh, a country with a rich history and a promising future, is no exception to this trend. In this article, we will explore the contributions of women in STEM fields in Bangladesh, shed light on the challenges they face, and discuss the initiatives taken to bridge the gender gap and promote gender equity in STEM.

The Gender Gap in STEM: A Global Perspective

Before delving into the specific context of Bangladesh, it's essential to understand the broader global landscape of gender disparity in STEM. Historically, STEM fields have been male-dominated, with women facing systemic barriers that limit their access and advancement in these careers. These barriers include stereotypes, lack of representation, gender bias, and unequal opportunities.

According to data from UNESCO, women make up only 28% of the world's researchers. In fields like engineering and computer science, the percentage of female representation is even lower. This gender gap not only deprives women of opportunities for personal and professional growth but also hampers scientific and technological progress by excluding a significant portion of talent and creativity.

Women in STEM in Bangladesh

Bangladesh, a South Asian nation with a population of over 160 million, has made remarkable progress in various sectors since its independence in 1971. Despite facing numerous challenges, the country has seen significant improvements in education, healthcare, and economic development. However, when it comes to the participation of women in STEM fields, there are still substantial disparities.

1. Education and Enrollment

In recent years, Bangladesh has made considerable strides in improving girls' access to education at all levels. Primary and secondary school enrollment rates for girls have increased significantly. However, when it comes to higher education and STEM fields, challenges persist. Women remain underrepresented in university STEM programs, particularly in engineering, computer science, and physics.

2. Workforce Participation

The workforce in Bangladesh still reflects gender disparities in STEM fields. Women are often concentrated in traditional roles, such as teaching and healthcare, while being underrepresented in technical and research positions. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, as of my last knowledge update in 2021, only around 12% of engineers in Bangladesh were women.

3. Gender Bias and Stereotypes

Gender bias and stereotypes are pervasive in Bangladesh, affecting women's participation in STEM fields. Traditional expectations of women's roles as homemakers and caregivers continue to shape societal perceptions, discouraging them from pursuing STEM careers. Additionally, unconscious bias can hinder women's advancement in STEM professions, making it difficult for them to access leadership roles and opportunities for career growth.

Contributions of Women in STEM in Bangladesh

While challenges persist, many remarkable women in Bangladesh have broken barriers and made significant contributions to STEM fields. Their achievements not only inspire future generations of female scientists and engineers but also contribute to the country's scientific and technological progress.

1. Dr. Firdausi Qadri

Dr. Firdausi Qadri is a renowned Bangladeshi microbiologist who has made significant contributions to the field of vaccine development and infectious disease research. She is the Senior Scientist at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), and her work has been instrumental in the fight against cholera and other infectious diseases in Bangladesh and globally.

2. Dr. Shamima Akhter

Dr. Shamima Akhter is a prominent computer scientist who has made substantial contributions to the field of bioinformatics. She is known for her research on protein structure prediction and has received recognition both nationally and internationally for her work.

3. Dr. M. Shahidullah

Dr. M. Shahidullah is a distinguished physicist who has played a crucial role in advancing science education and research in Bangladesh. He has been a strong advocate for gender equity in STEM and has worked to promote the inclusion of women in physics and other science disciplines.

4. Dr. Shamsun Nahar Khan

Dr. Shamsun Nahar Khan is an accomplished engineer and the first female Fellow of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB). She has been a trailblazer in the field of engineering and has worked to inspire and mentor young women pursuing careers in engineering.

Challenges Faced by Women in STEM in Bangladesh

Despite the remarkable achievements of women in STEM in Bangladesh, they continue to face numerous challenges that hinder their progress in these fields. Some of the key challenges include:

1. Societal Expectations: Traditional gender roles and societal expectations often discourage women from pursuing STEM careers, as they are expected to prioritize family and caregiving responsibilities over professional aspirations.

2. Lack of Role Models: The scarcity of visible female role models in STEM makes it difficult for young girls to envision themselves in these fields. Representation matters, and the absence of female mentors can be a significant barrier.

3. Educational Barriers: Gender disparities in STEM education can begin early in a girl's life. Unequal access to resources, stereotypes about girls' abilities in math and science, and a lack of female teachers in STEM subjects can discourage girls from pursuing STEM education.

4. Gender Bias: Gender bias and discrimination exist in academic and workplace settings. Women in STEM often have to work harder to prove their competence and face barriers to career advancement.

5. Work-Life Balance: Balancing family responsibilities with demanding STEM careers can be particularly challenging for women in Bangladesh. Supportive policies and workplace practices are crucial to address this issue.

Initiatives to Promote Gender Equity in STEM in Bangladesh

Recognizing the importance of gender equity in STEM, Bangladesh has taken several initiatives to address the gender gap in these fields and promote the inclusion of women in STEM careers.

1. Women in STEM Scholarships: Various organizations and institutions in Bangladesh offer scholarships specifically for women pursuing STEM education. These scholarships aim to reduce financial barriers and encourage more women to enter STEM fields.

2. STEM Outreach Programs: Non-profit organizations and educational institutions have launched outreach programs to engage young girls in STEM activities from an early age. These programs aim to spark interest in science and technology and challenge stereotypes.

3. Mentorship and Networking: Mentorship programs connect female STEM professionals with aspiring young women, providing guidance and support throughout their educational and professional journeys. Networking events and conferences also create opportunities for women to connect and collaborate in STEM.

4. Policy Reforms: Advocacy for policy reforms is ongoing to create a more inclusive environment for women in STEM. This includes efforts to address gender bias in academia and the workplace and promote family-friendly policies.

5. Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns highlighting the achievements of women in STEM are essential to challenge stereotypes and inspire the next generation of female scientists and engineers.

Conclusion

The role of women in STEM in Bangladesh is evolving, with remarkable individuals making significant contributions to science and technology despite numerous challenges. However, there is still much work to be done to bridge the gender gap and create a more inclusive and equitable STEM ecosystem in the country.

Promoting gender equity in STEM is not only a matter of social justice but also an economic imperative. By harnessing the full potential of its population, Bangladesh can accelerate its development and innovation in science and technology.

Efforts to encourage women and girls to pursue STEM education and careers, provide mentorship and support, and challenge stereotypes and biases are crucial steps in this journey. As Bangladesh continues to grow and develop, the active participation of women in STEM fields will be a key driver of progress and prosperity. It is a journey that requires the collective effort of society, educational institutions, and policymakers to ensure that no talent is left untapped, and no dream is left unrealized.