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QUEZON CITY, February 15, 2024 — Underscoring the importance of involvement, diversity, and access of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field, the Department of Education (DepEd) gathered around 500 female learners and teachers to celebrate the 2024 International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 13.

Spearheaded by the External Partnerships Office- International Cooperation Office (EPS-ICO), the event featured activities promoting equality, science and technology, and environmental conservation. The event highlights student exhibitors who showcased their projects and inventions that won them awards in their schools.

“Together, let us champion the cause of gender equality and build a future where every girl, every woman can reach for the stars and unleash their scientific potential,” DepEd NCR Regional Director Jocelyn D.R Andaya said in her welcome message.

RD Andaya, also underscored the significant shift of enrollees in the STEM programs of DepEd. In SDO Manila alone, 51% of STEM program enrollees are girls, signaling the narrowing of gender gaps in science and technology among girls and boys.

Additionally, the program also highlighted the efforts of DepEd partners in ensuring that girls were given the same importance, opportunities, and platforms in the male-dominated field.

Executives from partner organizations and agencies like the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, Inc., FELTA Multimedia Inc., Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), UNILAB Foundation Inc., Department of Science and Technology (DOST), STI Education, and Empower Ability gave presentations on how their organizations and agencies can act as a springboard for female learners who wishes to pursue further education and careers in STEM.

Afterward, the learners were given an opportunity to ask the guest panelists questions during the program’s open forum part.

Member learners and teachers for Youth for Environment in Schools (YES-O) are also invited to the event as the program kicked off with an onsite eco-tour led by SM Supermalls.

In this tour, the 35 participants were guided inside SM North EDSA to their facilities on solid waste management, water conservation, energy efficiency, and air quality programs. The eco-tour aims to inspire these YES-O officials and members to take part in the responsibility and caring for the environment.

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