International Women's Day: About 50,000 girls completed STEM learnings
Within 5 years of ‘Girls in Science’ initiative, 48,000 girls received peer training in STEM. To celebrate the International Women’s Day, participants of the project presented their achievements in the field of science and technology.
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – March 7, 2025. To celebrate International Women's Day, UNICEF Kyrgyzstan, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic hosted an event titled "Girls' Goals: Unlocking the Future with Girls". The event focused on national actions to strengthen gender equality, girls’ education, and the voices of adolescent girls in setting priorities for the future.
The event brought together representatives from the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, development partners, civil society, and adolescent girls. Discussions highlighted the impact of gender equality initiatives on girls' lives today, featuring prominent women in STEM and amplifying adolescent girls' voices in the national agenda.
This event marks a pivotal moment in the global pursuit of gender equality and women's empowerment, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. UNICEF, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Science and STEM4Girls donor Clé de Peau Beauté, also celebrated the 100th anniversary of the women’s movement in Kyrgyzstan, recognizing the contributions of women activists and calling for united efforts to advance gender equality and empower women and girls in Kyrgyzstan.
UNICEF Representative to the Kyrgyz Republic, Samman J. Thapa, emphasized the importance of supporting young girls and adolescents in their right to education, including STEM. "Supporting girls means supporting half of the population, which is essential for the development and future success of Kyrgyzstan," said Thapa. UNICEF believes that girls demonstrate courage in the face of challenges and remain hopeful for the future. They actively create a vision where all girls are protected, respected, and empowered. However, achieving this vision requires allies who listen to and respond to their needs.
"In light of rapid technological changes, environmental and climate challenges, and the development of artificial intelligence, it is crucial to develop STEM education in Kyrgyzstan. Emphasizing equal involvement of girls in science and technology is a mandatory condition for developing quality human capital and ensuring the prosperity of Kyrgyzstan," said deputy Minister of Education and Science Nadira Dzhusupbekova.
Since 2020, the Ministry of Education and Science of Kyrgyzstan, in collaboration with UNICEF and Clé de Peau Beauté, has been actively promoting STEM education for girls and boys in the most vulnerable communities. This partnership is challenging traditional social norms and breaking gender stereotypes. As a result, over 60,000 adolescents, including 48,000 girls, have received peer-to-peer training in STEM and have been encouraged to prepare for and pursue careers in these fields.
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