By Benjamin Wickham
WINDHOEK, MARCH 8 — International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8th, and this year’s theme, “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” highlights the importance of bridging the gender gap in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In his statement, the Namibian President recognizes the achievements of women and girls in different fields of human endeavour and emphasizes the need to end discrimination against women and girls in STEM fields.
The President’s statement recognizes that women have demonstrated their capabilities in different fields of human endeavour, and no field of study should be off-limits for them. Discrimination against women and girls in STEM fields hinders their advancement in society, and harmful practices such as gender-based violence (GBV) undermine their dignity. Gender equality is not only a catalyst for women to pursue their dreams, but it is also essential for peaceful communities and socio-economic development.
The Namibian Government has made significant strides in promoting gender inclusion in the fields of Science, Technology, and Mathematics. Women lead the education, science, technology, and innovation clusters, demonstrating the country’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in all spheres of the economy, including STEM-related fields.
Despite the progress made, International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the need to redouble efforts to achieve gender equality. The President emphasizes the importance of technology and innovation as enablers of gender equality, calling for their deployment to create an inclusive Namibian House.
In conclusion, the Namibian President’s statement on International Women’s Day acknowledges the achievements of women and girls and calls for an end to discrimination against them in STEM fields. The statement recognizes that gender equality is essential for peaceful communities and socio-economic development and reaffirms the Namibian government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in all spheres of the economy, including STEM-related fields. – Namibia Daily News
