Strategies we can use to increase number of women in STEM fields

We need to consider options that will help bridge the gender gap in STEM such as the provision of scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on training to equip women with skills in STEM. Organisations like AkiraChix and African Women in Science and Engineering lead efforts in this area, enhancing access to STEM education for young women.

The government needs to engage with them on a knowledge sharing and solutioning exercise so that the Ministries of Education and ICT can apply learnings to their processes and strategies.

Additionally, challenging stereotypes early and providing positive role models like Margaret Ogai, Maurine Chepkoech and Wangari Muchiri, women who have courageously exploited the STEM momentum and are using technology to create sustainable solutions to world challenges, could also prove effective.

Our government plays a crucial role in promoting women's participation in STEM through supportive policies. But it must do more and better in the creation and implementation of policies that ensure equal pay, family-friendly workplaces, and career advancement opportunities.

All these will create safe practice spaces for women in STEM. Other ways to invest in women include organising mentorship programmes and leadership training that will aid in retaining women in STEM professions.

Fostering networks and creating collaboration among women in STEM, will provide support systems and opportunities for professional growth. Platforms such as Women in Science and Women in Tech Africa offer spaces for women to connect, share experiences, and access resources.

They are great examples of innovative solutions that are building strong communities where women are advocating for each other, helping other women and girls to get the support that they need, overcome challenges and thrive in STEM fields.

Let us therefore reaffirm our commitment to accelerating progress for women in STEM fields not just in Kenya, but globally. By investing in education, challenging biases, implementing supportive policies, and fostering collaboration, we can create inclusive spaces where women thrive and drive innovation forward.

Ms Mugambi is a Nguvu change leader championing an online advocacy campaign for development of better employment and employability strategies for women and girls in STEM