Inclusive and Evolved : Women in STEM

By Levishka Khurana

 July 15 marks the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day, highlighting the strategic importance of equipping people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. It is a reminder that skill development is essential to reducing unemployment and promoting decent work. India faces a critical paradox: despite having one of the highest proportions of women in STEM fields globally (over 40% of STEM graduates), the country struggles with women's participation in the workforce.


Recently, there's been a notable increase in female labor force participation, with a sharper rise in rural areas as compared to urban areas. This trend sheds light on the barriers women face in the modern workplace, including safety and employment concerns. The Ministry of Education has promoted integrated education with skill development and life skills training activities to address these issues. The latest Union Budget introduces term loans for women's entrepreneurship, new national skill training institutes, and investments in technology-driven skilling. However, it must be noted that industry must transform from passive recruiter to active enabler for women's career transitions because government policies alone cannot bridge the education-employment gap. 


Persistent social beliefs, such as "mechanical means masculine" or "coding isn't feminine-friendly," create invisible barriers for women in STEM fields. Evidence suggests that women don't leave STEM fields due to lack of ability but because workspaces are often unwelcoming, and families lack awareness of career opportunities. These roles remain deeply gendered, further burdening the education-employment gap.


To support women's career transitions, industries can implement mentorship programs, flexible work arrangements, and safer workspaces. The Vishakha Guidelines provide a framework for preventing and addressing sexual harassment at work, creating a more welcoming environment for women. Initiatives like WeSTEM which are implemented in collaboration with Madhya Pradesh and Gujrat provide access to skills contribute to bridging of such talent gaps. Additionally, industries can offer training and development opportunities to help women progress in their careers.


By equipping women and girls with the skills and training needed to succeed in STEM fields, we can create a more inclusive and robust society. When women earn their voice and impact, it resonates across various spheres, from dinner tables to policy rooms and entire industries. To create an evolved and inclusive India we must focus on creating a supportive ecosystem that empowers women to pursue their careers without barriers, unlocking their potential and driving India's growth.





Until next time

Signing off,

Levishka Khurana 

 

Comments

Anonymous said…
Very good
July 15, 2025 at 12:16 PM
Anonymous said…
👏👏
July 15, 2025 at 1:34 PM
Anonymous said…
So Thoughtful. Can't wait to read more of your blog
July 15, 2025 at 2:16 PM
Anonymous said…
Great job Levishka.
July 15, 2025 at 2:18 PM
Anonymous said…
Keep it up
July 17, 2025 at 9:35 AM
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