Ivana says: Try girls, intelligence is not static, science is not just for boys

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Ivana Todorovska is a smart, hardworking young woman, a student of analytical biochemistry at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics in Skopje.

Ivana's message to all of us, and especially to girls and young women, is that even though it is very difficult to become a scientist, she will not stop trying.

Women have influenced epochs and changed nations. Women in science have broken through the armor of this field, which was previously dominated by men. We live in a time when we are exposed to the same danger, and more women in science and research would bring about change..., the RCC announced.

Try girls! Intelligence is not static, science and engineering are not just for boys.

Women are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), from education to jobs and leadership positions. The Western Balkans is no exception to this global gender gap in STEM. For example, female students are underrepresented in engineering, manufacturing, construction – 37 percent, and information and communication technology – 30 percent educational programs. The employment rate of women in 2018 was only 43.7 percent. The GDP of the Western Balkans would be 20 percent higher if women participated in the labor market at the same level as men. If we want more women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we need to start working on it from early childhood.

The Regional Cooperation Council continued its WE (Women Empowerment) campaign in March with Marta, an exceptional woman from Skopje who combined her formal education as a mechanical engineer with a love for design. Her export-oriented company, which employs 50 people, produces useful and practical items, such as radiators, unique due to their unusual and innovative design. Marta has achieved success.

There is still a lot of potential for similar success stories in the region! That is why the WE campaign continues to present young women, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics students from the Western Balkans, who enthusiastically shared their plans, dreams, and expectations with us. Their stories are inspiring and full of hope for our region.

Read Ivana's story today.