A new report shows that 67% of teenage girls lack essential information about careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The "I Wish Report 2023" - which looks at female Transition Year students' perspectives on STEM careers - also reveals that 64% of respondents cited their lack of information on STEM college courses as a considerable barrier to pursuing careers in these fields.
The I Wish organisation aims to inspire teenage girls globally towards STEM and it asked 2,335 teenage girls about perceived barriers to a career in the industry.
The report found that 41% of students emphasised the need for more career guidance and work-related activities during their school years.
Surprisingly, 21% of girls reported never having a career guidance class, despite 97% having access to a guidance counsellor.
I Wish said these findings result in a failure to bring STEM to life for girls and the opportunities to design a better and more inclusive future through STEM.
Gillian Keating, co-founder of I Wish, said today's statistics raise questions about the guidance counselling provided in some schools.
"It's deeply concerning that 64% of girls lack information about STEM college careers and job opportunities. We must diversify how we present STEM careers and pathways, equipping young women with the knowledge they need," she said.
Caroline O'Driscoll, co-founder of I Wish, stated that they have engaged with over 60,000 girls in the past decade and have witnessed substantial positive change.
The @IWish_ie 2023 survey highlights that a significant percentage of young girls lack crucial information about Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) opportunities.
— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) October 24, 2023
STEM fields are pathways to innovation, progress & limitless potential. https://t.co/jXpKDc9Zj2
"There has been a notable increase in female enrolment in STEM college courses, with the proportion rising from 29% in 2014 to 36% last year. Nevertheless, while significant progress is evident, there is still room for improvement," she said.
"We must better appreciate the work-related values held by these girls. A career in STEM arguably embodies these values, but perhaps we are not conveying the story effectively. This is where the I Wish survey plays a crucial role, allowing us to use the data to enhance the way we tell the story and change the story for girls," she added.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said today's report highlights a stark reality - that a significant percentage of young girls lack crucial information about STEM opportunities.
"STEM fields are pathways to innovation, progress, and limitless potential. We are committed to ensuring that every young woman in our country has the knowledge and support needed to excel in STEM," Mr Varadkar said.
The 10th annual STEM Showcase event will take place on February 8, 2024 at the RDS Dublin.
Registration is open at iwish.ie/register, with an estimated 3,000 female students expected to attend.
