SCIENCE FACULTY

Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Each year on February 11th, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a global observance that highlights and recognises the invaluable contributions of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This day serves as a reminder of the progress we've made toward gender equality in the scientific community, as well as the ongoing efforts needed to ensure equal opportunities for all.

To mark this important day, Wyndham College's female science students had the unique opportunity to engage in a video conference and Q&A session with two exceptional scientists from ANSTO. The session was both inspiring and empowering, leaving a lasting impact on the students who had the chance to interact directly with these remarkable women.

Nikki Keighran, a Health Physicist, shared insights into her role in safety operations, as well as the challenges she faced as a woman working in a male-dominated field. Her candid reflections on overcoming obstacles through persistence, resilience, and a deep passion for science were both eye-opening and motivating for the students. Her story encouraged them to push through barriers and embrace their potential in the face of adversity.

Dr. Madhura Manohar, an Accelerator Scientist at the Centre for Accelerator Science, captivated the students with her passion for the cutting-edge work she is involved in. Her enthusiasm for science, along with her emphasis on curiosity, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge, resonated deeply with the girls. Dr. Manohar's journey served as a powerful reminder of what is possible when women actively pursue careers in science and engineering.

The stories shared by both scientists illustrated to the girls that there are no limits to what they can achieve in STEM fields. Through their experiences, the scientists highlighted the importance of mentorship, confidence-building, and actively seeking opportunities for growth. They also emphasised the vital role women play in shaping the future of science, not just as contributors but as leaders and innovators.

As we celebrate this important day, it’s crucial to acknowledge that women and girls have been shaping the future of science for centuries. From groundbreaking research to technological innovations, they have made discoveries that continue to drive progress in health, space exploration, environmental protection, and much more. Despite their significant contributions, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields and continue to face barriers related to access, support, and recognition.

This year’s observance of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science emphasises the importance of building an inclusive, supportive environment for future generations of female scientists. By encouraging girls from a young age to pursue their STEM interests and providing them with mentors and role models, we can inspire them to achieve their dreams and contribute to a more equitable and innovative world.

As we honour the achievements of women in science today, we recognise not only their immense impact but also the importance of continuing to push for progress in the field. Let’s inspire the next generation to dream big, pursue careers in science, and break down barriers in order to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Helen Shandil -Science Faculty