28, September 2025

WOMEN IN STEM: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY

VOLUME-9; ISSUE-9; SEPT-2025

Author(s): 1. Sivasankari Iyyanar, 2. Parimala Devi Arivumani

Authors Affiliations:

Sivasankari Iyyanar

Independent Scholar, Puducherry, India

Parimala Devi Arivumani

Research Scholar, AIM, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India.

DOIs:10.2017/IJRCS/202509008     |     Paper ID: IJRCS202509008


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Women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is crucial for global innovation and sustainable development, yet persistent inequalities continue to restrict their advancement. Despite historic contributions by pioneers such as Marie Curie and Janaki Ammal, women remain underrepresented in STEM education, research, and leadership, with UNESCO (2021) estimating their share at only 35% of global STEM students. Structural barriers—including patriarchal norms, gender stereotypes, pay gaps, workplace discrimination, and limited mentorship—create a “leaky pipeline” where many women exit before attaining senior positions. At the same time, the 21st century presents unprecedented opportunities through digitalization, artificial intelligence, remote work, and women-led startups, alongside corporate and government diversity initiatives. This study explores both the enduring challenges and the emerging possibilities for women in STEM, situating them within broader debates on equity, innovation, and sustainability. Drawing from secondary data, thematic analysis, and global case examples, it emphasizes the need for comprehensive reforms in policy, education, and workplace structures to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure women’s full participation in shaping the future of STEM.

Women in STEM, Gender Equity, Patriarchy, Innovation, Sustainable Development

Sivasankari Iyyanar,  Parimala Devi Arivumani (2025); WOMEN IN STEM: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY, International Journal of Research Culture Society,    ISSN(O): 2456-6683,  Volume – 9,   Issue –  9,  Pp. 40-45.       Available on – https://ijrcs.org/

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