February 11 is International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The 2019 Theme is “Investment in Women and Girls in Science for Inclusive Green Growth”

“We are determined to encourage a new generation of women and girl scientists, to tackle to major challenges of our time. Heeding the call of Greta Thunberg, young women scientists are already making a difference in the fight against climate change, including South-African teenager Kiara Nirghin whose inventions minimize the impact of droughts.

By harnessing the creativity and innovation of all women and girls in science, and properly investing in inclusive STEM education, research and development and STI ecosystems, we have an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to benefit society.”

Joint-Message from Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO and Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN Women on the occasion of the International Day for Women and Girls in Science 2019.

February 11 is also my mom’s birthday. She passed away on May 17, 2013. She wanted to be a scientist, but had little to no support from her family to pursue this dream. She married before completing nurse’s training and soon all her energies were devoted to raising four children. In spite of all her difficulties, she left the world a better place than the way she found it.