International Day of Women and Girls in Science was observed on 11 February 2026, under the theme: “Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls”.

Basic Education Minister, Ms Siviwe Gwarube shared the following message on the day: “As we reflect on recent matric result trends in South Africa, while the overall matric pass rate reached historic highs, participation in key Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects remains a challenge. We are currently engaged in strategies to improve both the participation and performance in STEM subjects. Encouraging more children, especially girls, to take up Maths and Science through mentorship, inclusive opportunities, and community support will help build a future where children thrive across STEM careers and contribute to solving real-world challenges”.

Celebrated annually on 11 February since its proclamation by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science celebrates the remarkable contributions of women in science and raises awareness that science and gender equality must advance together to address the world’s major challenges. Synergising Artificial Intelligence, Social Science, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and Finance as a four-pillar approach to accelerate inclusive and sustainable development can assist in dismantling persistent barriers by closing gender gaps in digital skills.

The call is for greater participation of women and girls in science to drive scientific, technological and innovative progress that is more ethical, inclusive and responsive to societal needs. Sustainable development depends on equal access to science, technology and innovation and scientific progress can only meet the challenges of our time if it is shared, inclusive and driven by all.