President Muizzu Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality in STEM

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing gender equality in STEM fields, marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a strong message emphasizing the vital role of women in scientific progress.

In his statement, the President highlighted the significant contributions of women in science and underscored the importance of increasing their participation in STEM. He stressed that ensuring equal opportunities in these fields is crucial for national development and tackling global challenges such as climate change and sustainability.

To foster gender equality in STEM, the government has implemented various initiatives, including scholarship programs, student loan schemes, and first-degree grants, leading to greater female enrollment in STEM courses. The Maldives has also achieved the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) in closing the gender gap in educational access.

Beyond higher education, efforts are underway to expand vocational training opportunities. This includes establishing vocational labs and enhancing career guidance programs to equip women and girls with industry-specific skills and professional support.

Recognizing the importance of women in science and technology, the government has set a target for the digital economy to contribute 15% of the GDP. President Muizzu emphasized that diversity and inclusivity are key drivers of economic security and innovation, with policies designed to create an environment where women can thrive in STEM fields.