The Girls in SciTech campaign, coordinated by Professor Serge Haan, sought to tackle the gender imbalance in STEM fields. High school students, university alumni, industry professionals, and political leaders all united to discover how to encourage more young female minds to take up the ‘hard’ sciences rather than opting for the ‘soft’ sciences (life sciences, medicine, biological sciences etc.)? Indeed one can even question the word choice attributed to the sciences here.
Despite incremental progress, women remain underrepresented in STEM, particularly in senior roles. According to Eurostat, 41% of all scientists and engineers in the European Union were women in 2022. The figures are consistently lower for maths, physics, computer science and engineering, varying from country to country.
Philippe Hiligsmann, Vice-Rector for Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Luxembourg, underscored the importance of the campaign: “This is more than an event; it is a movement to change things by motivating and inspiring girls to pursue a career in science.”
The event featured a panel of inspiring women from diverse STEM backgrounds, who shared their own personal journeys and ideas:
Stéphanie Obertin, Minister for Research and Higher Education in Luxembourg, captured the essence of the event’s message when she said, “It’s about transforming our society by empowering women in STEM fields. The unique perspectives and ideas they bring to the field enhance problem-solving and spark innovation.”
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The panelists identified several key barriers that contribute to the gender gap:
From an early age, girls are exposed to stereotypes that suggest STEM is not for them. Many girls are told, either overtly or subtly, that they are not as good at math or science as boys. These messages, often reinforced by parents, peers, and teachers, can impact their self-confidence and limit their aspirations. As Prof. Skerdilajda Zanaj pointed out, “It’s not that girls don’t like science, it’s that they are taught to believe it’s not for them.”
The absence of female role models in STEM fields further discourages girls from pursuing these paths. Research shows that girls are more likely to enter STEM fields if they see women succeeding in them. “For every 10 Google queries asking, ‘Is my daughter gifted?’ there are 25 asking, “Is my son gifted?’” said Marie-Alix Dalle, an alumna of the University of Luxembourg and an Environmental Engineer at ArcelorMittal. The lack of female role models in leadership positions can make it harder for girls to imagine themselves succeeding in science.
Parents often unconsciously reinforce gendered expectations. Research has shown that girls are less likely to be encouraged to pursue STEM subjects, particularly in math and technology. This parental influence can have long-term effects on girls’ academic choices and self-perception.
Women in STEM often face the additional challenge of balancing their careers with family life. Marie-Louise Uwizeye, an engineer and mother of three, shared her experience of working in engineering while raising children: “If you really want to do it, you can. I am a mother of three children, I have a PhD, and I am working full-time. Don’t excuse yourself – this is your right.” Despite the challenges, she emphasised that women can thrive in STEM, even as mothers.
To address these barriers, the panelists discussed various strategies that can help increase the number of girls in STEM, especially in leadership positions:
One of the critical points raised during the discussion was the importance of seeing women in senior positions within STEM fields. Not only do these role models inspire the next generation, but they also demonstrate that leadership in STEM is achievable for women. “We need to increase the representation of women in science at senior levels to show young girls that it’s possible to rise to the top,” said Hania Tayara. Studies show that having female mentors or professors increases the likelihood that girls will continue to pursue STEM studies and careers.
Many panelists emphasized the importance of making STEM content more relevant to girls. As Marie-Alix Dalle put it, “Enough talk about cars!” In order to engage more girls, science education must reflect a broader range of interests and real-world applications. “Science should resonate with girls as well”, she added, advocating for curricula that connect STEM to real-world issues like climate change, healthcare, and technology.
Several initiatives are already in place in Luxembourg to support girls in STEM. For example, mentorship programs, such as those offered by Native Scientists and the University of Luxembourg, help guide girls through the uncertainties they may face when applying to university or entering STEM fields. Laurence Lampecco, an analyst developer at POST Luxembourg, shared her personal experience of mentorship and the crucial role it played in her journey: “Having someone who believes in you makes all the difference.”
Finally, the discussion underscored the importance of challenging the societal norms that dictate what careers are “appropriate” for men and women. By showcasing the success stories of women in STEM, through media and other platforms, we can shift perceptions and inspire young girls to see these fields as viable career paths.
As Monika Zlopasa, a Risk Manager at UBS Luxembourg, pointed out, “We miss out on complementary skills and points of view when we don’t have women in STEM. It’s not just about representation – it’s about making work better, more innovative, and more inclusive.”
The Girls in SciTech event marked an important milestone in the effort to close the gender gap in STEM. But as the panelists emphasized, real change requires a collective effort from all sectors of society. From parents and teachers to industry leaders and policymakers, everyone has a role to play in creating a more inclusive environment for girls in STEM.
Yuriko Backes, Luxembourg’s Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity, stated, “When young girls see women excelling in STEM fields, it serves as an inspiration. It shows them that they too can achieve success in these areas.” By continuing to promote mentorship, support networks, and initiatives like Girls in SciTech, we can ensure that the next generation of STEM leaders includes a balanced representation of both women and men.
In the end, the journey towards gender equality in STEM is just beginning. With sustained commitment, collaboration, and advocacy, we can create a world where girls in science are not the exception – but the norm.
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