When I chose to study sciences in school and for my degree many moons ago, there were few other girls who chose to take that approach.
As a mum to three girls I am keen to make sure that they explore as many opportunities as possible to play to their strengths and prepare them for the future world of work. I was interested to learn that the subjects I chose to study are still not popular with girls.
Earlier this year an initiative was launched by Silicon Republic and Accenture Ireland called ‘Women Invent Tomorrow’ on International Womens Day which I was fortunate to be invited to speak at.
This is a year-long campaign highlighting the importance of closing the gender gap in science and technology, as well as championing and profiling inspirational women as role models in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).
They have now opened up an online survey that runs between 16 and 27 September 2013 to explore:
– the factors that influence girls in junior cycle at post-primary level in their attitude to and selection of STEM subjects
– identify key trends and emerging influences
– to assess within Irish population any gaps in understanding the opportunities around STEM, and the comfort level of parents in discussing related career options with their teenage children
To help Accenture and Silicon Republic learn why few Irish girls want to study and work in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths if you are a student, parent, teacher or guidance counsellor you can complete the online survey here. It should take no more than 10 minutes of your time and results will be confidential. The results could empower and enhance the future careers of girls in Ireland.
