His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted that the equal participation of women and girls is the cornerstone of a scientific landscape that truly serves the global community. In an official message marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the President underscored that the Maldives’ journey toward progress is inextricably linked to empowering women in technical fields.
In his message, the President noted that, from climate resilience to health, energy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, the contribution of women and girls are central to addressing global challenges, and their equal participation remains essential to shaping science that works for everyone.
Furthermore, the President highlighted the efforts undertaken to increase the number of women and girls pursuing studies and careers in STEM, by expanding higher education opportunities, technical and vocational training, scholarships, and by introducing new programs in engineering, ICT, marine science, health sciences, and emerging technologies. The president reiterated that continued investments in education in highly technical fields, research capacity, and digital skills development are opening new pathways for young women across the country.
President Dr Muizzu further emphasised that an inclusive future for science begins with opportunity. He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to removing existing barriers, strengthening access, and building a supportive ecosystem to ensure that every Maldivian girl with a passion for science is empowered to learn, lead, and contribute to national development.
In a message shared on his official X account to mark the day, President Dr Muizzu further honoured the women who have broken traditional barriers in the scientific community. He characterised their contributions to the nation’s knowledge base as irreplaceable, particularly in driving progress across the health and technology sectors. The President reinforced his Administration's resolve to dismantle systemic obstacles, ensuring that personal passion for discovery is the only requirement for Maldivian girls to lead the nation's future development.
Complementing the President’s message, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed also took to X to address the social foundations required for women to excel in science. She underscored that while research confirms that girls often match or exceed their peers in scientific aptitude, persistent stereotypes in homes and classrooms still deter them. The First Lady called for a collective resolve to dismantle these early-life barriers, noting that meaningful change depends on the intentional support of parents, educators, and communities to ensure that every girl's potential is fully realised and celebrated.
Observed annually on February 11, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a United Nations General Assembly-adopted initiative dedicated to promoting the full and equal participation of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and recognising women’s contributions to science.