Jannah Jubori is a Grade (Year) 6 student, studying her Cambridge Primary qualifications at ABQ Seeb International School in Oman.
In this blog, she shares her reflections on embracing gender equity in education and technology, and the value women bring to the workforce.
Imagine a gender-equal world! A world free of bias and discrimination!
International Women’s Day is a very important day of the year, because it celebrates women’s achievements, educates people, and raises awareness of women’s equality. The day is dedicated to celebrating the cultural, social, and economic achievements of women. International Women’s Day has existed for over a century, with the first celebration taking place in 1911.
The History of Women in The Labour Force
Over the decades, from 1930 to 1970, women’s participation in the economy began to rise, especially for those who were educated. However, most women were still expected to have short careers, and to a great extent, they were viewed as secondary earners whose husbands’ careers came first.
As time progressed, attitudes about women working and being employed began to change. As women started gaining experience in the labour force, people increasingly saw that they can balance both family and work. Some women even began to attend college and graduate school, with the expectation of working, whether they were planning to get married and have a family or not. This tells us we can use history to inform ourselves that men and women can combine and balance having a family and a career.
How do we embrace equity?
Firstly, equity is not just a “nice to have” it is a “MUST have”. In every society, we must focus on gender equity. Each one of us can actively support and embrace equity within our sphere of influence.
When I say equity, I’m also talking about creating an inclusive world. Being included and having a sense of belonging feels right. When we embrace equity, we embrace diversity and then we embrace the feeling of being included.
In education, embracing equity develops the mindsets and necessary practices to create an affirming, comprehensive, and equitable educational atmosphere.
How can we embrace equity for women in STEM?
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) remains one of the fields where women are still underrepresented.
Women bring various skill sets, viewpoints, and experiences to the workplace. In return, women should receive access, opportunities, and the necessary training to acquire and retain rewarding and well-paid jobs! We should provide meaningful ways for women to get involved in STEM.
And if you’re asking why we need women in STEM? Well, they bring a fresh approach and they can offer unique perspectives to solve problems and design new products.
Therefore, in March, and beyond, I hope everyone will take the opportunity to appreciate the amazing women in our lives and learn more about the influence that women have around the world.
Read more blogs celebrating International Women’s month below:
