There is a particularly important ally in overcoming gender stereotypes and the gender pay gap: the study of science, technology, engineering and math. This is because two-thirds of the professions of the future will be based on STEM subjects. According to a recent report by international consultancy firm McKinsey, in the coming decade in Europe the number of jobs connected to this sector will grow by 20%: however, the number of women working in these fields is still low.

A worldwide study by UNESCO has shown that less than a third of female students choose a study pathway in STEM subjects. Professional orientation is still largely influenced by gender stereotypes that take shape as early as elementary school and, often unconsciously, determine girls’ educational and future career choices.

This gender gap not only hinders women’s professional opportunities, but is also to the detriment of companies, research and, more generally, society as a whole. According to the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), reducing gender inequality by encouraging the presence of women in STEM working environments could increase GDP per capita in the European Union by 2% by 2030, and by between 6.1% and 9.6% by 2050.

To promote female empowerment in the STEM fields, the United Nations General Assembly made February 11 The International Day of Women and Girls in Science.