Background

In recent years, India has seen a significant increase in the number of skilling programs available to students and young adults in underserved communities. The idea behind these programs is to provide people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds opportunities to gain skills which they can use to gain employment and become economically independent. However, it has been identified that these programs do not offer adequate STEM-based skilling opportunities, particularly for young girls and women.

STEM skilling opportunities are crucial for girls and women from economically backward communities as it empowers them to achieve economic independence and social mobility. Women from these communities are likely to face a number of barriers to education and employment opportunities, leaving them vulnerable to repeating cycles of poverty. 

Even beyond individual empowerment, STEM skills training is necessary for the overall development of our country. Research suggests that the STEM workforce for women in India is around 27%, lower than the global average of 30%. This disparity can hinder innovation and growth and prevent India from achieving social equality. Traditional gender roles have always pushed women to the background of national growth, leading to challenges such as gender-based wage disparity. Focusing on STEM education for women in underserved communities can challenge these deep-rooted traditions, paving the way for a more inclusive society.