International Day of Women and Girls in Science

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a global observance aimed at achieving gender equality and empowerment for women and girls in the scientific field. Instituted by the United Nations General Assembly, this observance hinges on the need to promote full and equal access to science for women and girls, recognizing their critical role in scientific and technological communities. The day underscores the importance of not only encouraging girls to pursue science careers but also celebrating and promoting the work of women scientists.

Recognizing the importance of this day, the United Kingdom has a rich history in advocacy to bridge the gender gap in science. Historically, the UK is the home to several pioneering women scientists such as Rosalind Franklin and Dorothy Hodgkin. In recent years, efforts have been amplified to encourage a greater number of women and girls to participate in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and careers. The observance implicitly amplifies the UK government's recent approach and efforts, such as the STEM ambassador programme and the WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) campaign, aimed directly at engaging more women and girls in science.

In the United Kingdom, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is honoured through various initiatives and programmes to encourage participation and emphasize the achievements of women in the field of science. Educational and governmental institutions, along with NGOs and public bodies, organize panel discussions, workshops, and mentorship programmes that expose the younger generation of women to STEM subjects. These events serve to inspire and guide them towards considering the scientific field as a prospective career. It is observed annually on the 11th of February, as designated by the United Nations, providing a space to promote, celebrate, and reflect upon the vital role women and girls play in scientific and technological development.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 International Day of Women and Girls in Science in the UK

• The 2026 theme for the global observance is From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap, a directive that shifts the international focus from identifying systemic barriers to showcasing and implementing proven solutions within scientific ecosystems.
• A major highlight for the United Kingdom audience is the 11th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly, which specifically explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, social science, and finance to build inclusive futures.
• In Manchester, the university-led seminar Celebrating Women in Science: Evidence, Experience, and Change is set to address critical contemporary issues such as mental health in academia and the rapid growth of the FemHealth sector.
• The upcoming observance places a high priority on emerging technologies, particularly cybersecurity and AI, where women currently represent only about 22% of professionals globally, a statistic that remains a key area of focus for British policy-makers.
• The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Programme continues to be a focal point of interest, as it frequently awards prestigious fellowships to outstanding early-career researchers across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
• Educational initiatives this year are likely to revisit the legacy of pioneer Anna Atkins, the Kent-based botanist who produced Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions, which is recognised as the first book ever illustrated with photographic images.
• The 2026 events are increasingly involving the private sector through partnerships such as Femmes@Numérique, aiming to foster scientific entrepreneurship and support women who are translating lab-based discoveries into innovative British start-ups.
• As part of the UKRI Gender Equality Plan, national research councils are expected to highlight new leadership programmes designed to propel more women into senior roles within the UK’s most prestigious scientific institutions.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Discover 12 notable women in STEM who have made a lasting impact on history.
• Learn how to get children interested in STEM. Some tips include cooking and baking as the mixing and measuring of values can create an interest in science. Other tips include using more math in everyday life. Discover more tips.
• Watch a film to learn more about Women and Girls in Science:
  The Race for the Double Helix (1987 - Although it's not solely focused on women in science, Rosalind Franklin, a critical contributor to the discovery of the structure of DNA, is a major character in this British movie.
  Codebreaker (2011) - A documentary-drama that tells the story of one of Britain's most extraordinary unsung heroes, Alan Turing. The film highlights the role of Joan Clarke, a code-breaker during World War II.
• Visit the Science Museum, London: The Science Museum in London often holds events and activities for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It is a great place to educate both women and girls about the significant contributions of women in science.