The Fourth Industrial Revolution marks a transformative time in human development, reshaping the way we work, live, and interact with technology. As industries evolve and the global economy grows, an undeniable opportunity has emerged to empower one billion people with the education, skills, and economic opportunities they need to thrive by 2030. But amid the exciting potential, one pressing challenge looms large – bridging the gender gap in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
According to a study conducted by the CFA Institute, the IT sector has the highest representation of women in the workforce, with 30% female participation. Financial services companies ranked second with 22.4% female participation during the financial year 2021-22. The analysis was based on voluntary Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting disclosures by 134 companies.
The critical need for reskilling
As the Fourth Industrial Revolution shifts the rules of work, it also presents a chance to rethink how we prepare the workforce of the future. It’s not just about how we work, but who works. Reskilling is essential to this vision – it provides the opportunity to not only create a more inclusive workforce but also tackle the looming challenges of technological advancement.
The STEM gender diversity deficit
Over the past decade, enrollment among women in STEM-related university programs has stagnated, with the reasons varying across industries and regions. If this trend is not addressed, it will compound reskilling challenges already forecasted to cost G20 countries over $11 trillion in the next decade.
Despite these barriers, inspiring stories abound of women breaking through in STEM. Take Ritu Karidhal, one of the “rocket women” of the Indian Space Research Organization, whose work has inspired countless women in India to pursue STEM. Similarly, Esraa Tarawneh’s work on mitigating flash floods and Ayanna Howard’s assistive technologies for children with disabilities are transforming lives and tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
These stories are not outliers. They show that when women lead in STEM, not only do they change the world, but they also set the stage for more innovation. Gender-diverse teams have been shown to be more profitable and productive. Companies where women make up over 30% of the workforce are more likely to financially outperform those with fewer women, while gender-diverse research and development teams are more likely to introduce innovative solutions.
Overcoming barriers and creating sustainable change
The case for closing the gender gap in STEM is clear, but without intentional action, it will persist. Women face numerous barriers to accessing these fields, ranging from societal stereotypes to lack of resources or infrastructure. Addressing these challenges requires localized solutions that reflect the specific needs of different regions and industries. Tailored approaches are essential for creating programs that not only address immediate needs but also set the stage for long-term progress.
One of the most powerful solutions lies in mentorship. For many young women, a lack of relatable role models makes the pathway to STEM fields seem out of reach. Connecting aspiring scientists, innovators, and engineers with mentors who have navigated similar challenges provides guidance, builds confidence, and creates a support system that accelerates both academic success and career advancement.
Studies have shown that mentorship programs can increase promotion and retention rates for women and minorities by 15% to 38%. Programs like Global Engineer Girls (GEG) have demonstrated just how effective targeted initiatives can be in supporting the underrepresentation of women in STEM. GEG has already supported over 1,700 students and provided employment opportunities to hundreds of women across Türkiye, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Saudi Arabia.
Collaboration for lasting impact
One of the most effective ways to tackle the gender divide in STEM is through collaboration. Public-private-philanthropic partnerships are instrumental in creating sustainable solutions. Governments provide the regulatory frameworks that ensure fairness and equity, while the private sector drives efficiency and innovation.
In Kuwait, for example, a successful collaboration between the government, private sector partners, and philanthropic organizations has advanced women’s inclusion in the Fourth Industrial Revolution through the Kuwait Women’s Economic Empowerment Platform.
Unleashing the full potential of women in STEM
As industries transform during the Fourth Industrial Revolution, some jobs will disappear while new opportunities will emerge. The reskilling revolution offers a rare chance to rethink the workforce and ensure that women are equipped to participate in and lead this new era.
Investing in women in STEM isn’t just a matter of equality—it’s a strategic advantage. A world that empowers women in STEM is one that innovates faster, solves problems more effectively, and thrives in the face of global challenges.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is shaping the future, and to make sure that future is inclusive, we need all hands on deck, including those often overlooked. It’s time to rewrite the rules of opportunity, ensuring that women, especially in STEM, are at the forefront of creating the world of tomorrow.
