President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has shared a message on the occasion of International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
The President’s message reads as follows:
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On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we honour the significant contributions and pioneering achievements made by women and girls in science. This day further strengthens our resolve to increase the participation of women in STEM, to ensure equal opportunities and support for their growth and success, which would ultimately lead to the prosperity of society.
As we navigate the complexities of the global landscape, the insights and expertise of women scientists and technologists will be indispensable. Their leadership and contributions will help us harness the potential to address pressing challenges, from climate change to sustainable development.
This is why the Government of Maldives takes pride in empowering women and girls in science, through innovation and resilience. In this era of rapid technological transformation, the Maldives is committed to ensuring that women and girls are at the forefront of our development.
The provision of scholarships, student loan schemes and first-degree grants for students to pursue STEM courses and the increasing number of women being enrolled in STEM programs through these initiatives, stands as a clear testament of the Maldives’ unwavering commitment in promoting gender equality in the educational spectrum. Furthermore, the educational sector of the Maldives has successfully achieved the SDG goal in closing the gender gap in access to education.
Additionally, the Maldives is actively working towards enhancing vocational training through the establishment of vocational labs and strengthening career guidance programs. This is by increasing industry specific skill programs along with career counselling services, ensuring that women and girls have greater access to educational and vocational opportunities. These efforts aim to empower and develop a stronger generation, defying discriminations, and gender disparity.
The Maldives aspires to become a developed nation by 2040, and we recognize the transformative power of the digital economy in driving this vision. Our goal is to increase the contribution of the digital economy to fifteen percent of our GDP, reflecting our commitment to embracing technological advancements and global changes. In this ambitious journey, women, especially those in the fields of science, will play a pivotal role.
Diversity and inclusivity are the force that drives economic security and innovation. Together, through targeted initiatives and inclusive policies, we are fostering an environment where women can thrive in the field of science, and position the Maldives as a leader of equity and excellence for women and girls.
On this day, we applaud the invaluable dedication of women and girls in science and reaffirm our commitment to building a more gender-equal society, where women’s empowerment in all aspects is at the forefront of our progress.
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The President also shared a post on his official X account earlier today to mark the occasion.