ECONOMYNEXT – UN Women and Makers Global in Sri Lanka are conducting capacity building programmes to mentor and support young women to enter high-growth industries in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The MakHer programme is part of a project funded by the Republic of Korea to advance implementation of Sri Lanka’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security.
The programme’s recent event brought together 120 undergraduate students, industry leaders and representatives from the development sector to discuss the intersections between advancing young women’s aspirations in STEM careers and fostering ecosystems conducive to women’s economic empowerment.
“Ensuring the economic empowerment of women, especially in STEM fields, is essential for peace and development,” Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Miyon Lee said at the event.
During crises too, technology driven responses and women’s diverse perspectives and innovations can help improve social cohesion and provide solutions that can contribute to addressing inequalities and potential drivers of conflict.”
The MakHer programme recognizes that advancing women’s participation in STEM is essential for addressing the stark gender gap in Sri Lanka’s labour force, where women predominantly occupy low-skilled and informal work.
Research by UN Women (2022) reveals that societal attitudes in Sri Lanka regarding the types of jobs women can and cannot pursue, acts as a major barrier for women’s entry into the labour force, with three-fourths of male employers surveyed in the study admitting that they were prejudiced against hiring women workers, a UN statement read.
“Women continue to be underrepresented in fields like the tech industry, which is largely recognized as one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying sectors in the world,” Ramaaya Salgado, Head of Office at UN Women Sri Lanka said.
“Closing the gender gap in STEM will not only ensure that women have access to more high-skilled employment, it will also ensure economic progress and help advance the women, peace and security agenda to foster more peaceful societies. We are grateful to the Republic of Korea for their vital support in making this initiative possible.”
“Advancing young women in STEM is about building a future where quality education, gender equality, and economic growth thrive through innovation,” Nevindaree Premarathne, CEO of the Makers Global said.
“With our MakHer initiative, we empower women to transform their aspirations into achievements, equipping them with the skills and confidence to lead in high-growth industries and drive sustainable development.”
Through hands-on, expert-led workshops and mentorship, the MakHer programme will support 120 students from around Sri Lanka and will contribute to building inclusive ecosystems that promote women’s participation in peacebuilding and economic growth. (Colombo/Jan25/2025)
