School program highlights bright future for women and girls in science

Today is the 6^th annual International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The event will be marked this year by a virtual United Nations assembly that will discuss important themes such as the vital role women scientists play in the fight against COVID-19 and the importance of meeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Australian energy company Jemena has teamed up with resources and energy employment group AMMA in recognition of this special day to raise awareness of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Jemena has selected several female employees to visit Melbourne school students to encourage more young women to pursue STEM careers. Students who participate in these visits, which are organised as part of AMMA’s Bright Future STEM program for primary schools, will participate in discussions and receive information packs aimed at igniting a passion for the next generation of women in science.

“We know people’s preferences for STEM-based subjects and careers develop at a very young age, and that positive role models can play an important part in encouraging people to pursue science and maths at school which can lead to meaningful and rewarding careers in STEM-based organisations,” said Jemena’s Jesse Mills.

AMMA Director Operations Tara Diamond added that employing women role models for schools was an important way to “ignite a passion for STEM” and empower girls to pursue further studies.

The role models also tell stories about how their careers progressed and their passion for the resources and energy industry in an aim to inspire the kids even further. The program has already seen considerable success for AMMA, reaching nearly 5,000 students in 2019–20.