Released on October 11, 2016
October 11 has been declared by the United Nations as International Day of the Girl. This day is celebrated world-wide to promote girls’ empowerment, recognize girls’ rights, and the contribution made by young women in different professional fields. In Saskatchewan, the theme of this special day is “Making a Difference: Encouraging Girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).”
“International Day of the Girl is an opportunity to raise awareness of the significance of mentoring females in science, technology, engineering and mathematics professions and exploring career possibilities with Saskatchewan girls and young women,” Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for the Status of Women Tina Beaudry-Mellor said. “The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists is a key driver of this work in Saskatchewan. Our government applauds their efforts to break down barriers and encourage women and girls to reach their potential as they explore the opportunities that exist within these fields.”
“The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists is pleased to work with the Status of Women Office in supporting efforts to encourage girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM,” Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists (APEGS) President Tara Zrymiak said. “APEGS feels that gender diversity is a critical component of our service to society, and therefore undertakes a number of activities to proactively promote STEM to girls and provide them the opportunity to interact with women in our professions. We see role models and mentors as a major contributing factor to encouraging girls to consider careers in STEM areas. ”
To help promote gender diversity in the STEM fields, Engineers Without Borders (EWB) is a community of innovative students, professionals and fellows working to create systemic change in Canada. The EWB University of Regina chapter is active in outreach in the schools and community. EWB’s youth engagement sessions are conducted in a classroom setting with interactive presentations to familiarize students with the role of engineering and technology with a social perspective.
The Government of Canada led the call for an International Day of the Girl at the United Nations to raise awareness about the particular challenges that girls face and to take action. The House of Commons unanimously supported a motion to have Canada lead this international campaign, and the Government of Canada partnered with Plan Canada to achieve that goal.
The Government of Canada and Canadians celebrated the first International Day of the Girl on October 11, 2012, beginning a tradition where specific issues related to girls will be highlighted both in Canada and internationally on this special day.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca