OIC Reaffirms Commitment to Women, Girls’ Leadership in Science for a Sustainable Future

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed annually on 11 February, recognizes the vital contributions of women and girls to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

This day serves as a reminder of the importance of gender equality in fostering innovation and ensuring sustainable progress worldwide. The theme for the 2025 celebration, "Women and Girls in Science Leadership, a New Era for Sustainability" underscores the essential role of women as leaders in science and technology in shaping a more sustainable future.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) upholds women's empowerment across its Member States, particularly in the fields of science and technology. 

This dedication is demonstrated through the adoption of a resolution promoting women's education in STEM, which was endorsed during the 8th Session of the OIC Mistrial Conference on Women, held in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt, in 2021.

The OIC Plan of Action for the Advancement of Women (OPAAW) serves as a strategic framework for empowering women in various fields, including science and technology.

 The plan emphasizes the need for equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership positions, aligning with broader efforts to enhance women's participation in scientific research and technological innovation.

The OIC Women Development Organization (WDO), headquartered in Cairo, plays a significant role in advancing women's empowerment, including in STEM fields, by promoting policies and initiatives that enhance their participation in scientific and technological sectors. 

On this occasion, the OIC urges all Member States that have not yet signed and ratified the WDO Statute to expedite the process and become active members of this organization, contributing to its mission of fostering gender equality and sustainable development.

Additionally, the “Jeddah Document on the Rights of Women in Islam” adopted at the International Conference on Women in Islam, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the OIC General Secretariat from 6 to 8 November 2023 in Jeddah, reinforced the importance of women’s empowerment in all spheres, including STEM.

On this occasion, H. E. Hissein Brahim Taha, Secretary-General of the OIC, called on Member States and relevant institutions to intensify efforts to ensure the full participation of women and girls in science and technology.

 He emphasized that, in line with this year's theme, women and girls must be empowered to take leadership roles in science and technology to drive forward long-term sustainability development initiatives and tackle global challenges.