Introduction

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a day established by the United Nations General Assembly to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. It is celebrated on February 11 every year. People worldwide as well as the United Nations, observe this day on a large scale. 

This day is an annual UN-observed event on February 11, which promotes full and equal access to STEM fields for women and girls. It focuses more on the elimination of gender bias and barriers in the innovation of scientific and technological contributions in the 21st century. This event celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025 with a theme of “Building a Future for Women in Science.”

It is observed globally at the UN headquarters, different universities and cities. Different academic, scientific and women-led organizations actively participate in this program. The international observance is done on this day to promote gender equality and participation, which is officially recognized by the United Nations. Millions of people worldwide observe this day through different events, campaigns and educational programs.

History of This Day

International Day of Women and Girls in Science was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to promote gender equality in Science. In 2015, the UN officially proclaimed this day. In 2016, the first global observation was done on February 11. Since then, global campaigns, events and policy discussions are done annually. This day is expanded in this scale from the awareness, initiatives, mentornships and global STEM campaigns. This day plays a vital role for women and girls to get enough opportunities in the present day. 

How is it celebrated?

Different STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related workshops, seminars and mentorships are organized this day for its observance. Different award ceremonies are held in order to promote all girls and women equally in the world of science and technology. Different Schools, Universities, Research Centers, INGOs, Clubs and UN bodies are actively involved in the events on this day. Different global campaigns, hashtags and webinars are also initiated.

Community Impact of this day

This day encourages confidence, curiosity and enhances equal opportunity for everyone. This promotes equality, inclusion and fairness in every possible way. It helps to connect educators, students and professionals in STEM. It also inspires several families to support girls education and careers. It teaches the children and youngsters about STEM careers, gender equity and innovation. The girls are supported in science and technology, where they attend and share STEM events. This day highlights the women’s achievements in the field of Science and Technology. It also encourages mentoring and learning for girls and women.

Quick Reference Card 

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

•  Date: 11 February 
•  Celebrated in: Worldwide
•  Duration: 1 day
•  Status: UN International Observance
•  Type: Educational / Social / Global
•  Communities: Women, girls, scientists, students, educators

Quick Fact: The day was created by the UN in 2015 to promote gender equality in science worldwide.