The EU-funded project called Women STEM-UP aims at tackling a key challenge related to the persistent gender gap in STEM higher education i.e., Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; and consequently, in the labour market.

The main goal of the project is to promote equal opportunities, inclusion and fairness among females pursuing STEM studies. In this light, the project is developing and offering higher education, and in particular women, training tools, learning experiences and inspiration that promote the participation of women in STEM fields.

Under-representation of women in STEM sectors

The contribution of women in STEM has been recognized and considered as an important part for innovation and growth. STEM graduates are in high demand in the labour market and STEM jobs are among the most highly paid. However, the under-representation of women in STEM educational programmes is a significant problem that has long term effects.

Therefore, it is crucial to increase the number of women in STEM but also to prevent them from dropping out from their STEM studies and support them to continue with STEM careers.

Call for Women Mentors

Based on the past mentoring programs and experiences, Women STEM-Up project has developed a mentoring program for female undergraduate students as mentees, and university staff and women STEM professionals as mentors.

Mentoring has been found to be a key success factor for marginalised groups within STEM. Specifically for women, it has been shown to function as a facilitator for entering and staying in STEM. To increase gender balance in the field, it is crucial to dedicate efforts to both recruit more women to and retain those already in STEM education or careers. Mentoring can be used to achieve these goals through the entire educational and career pathway.

The project partners have now launched a call for mentors:  women STEM professionals, scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are interested or involved in supporting women in STEM fields. Whoever is committed and passionate about women staying in STEM fields and look for ways to inspire and support them, this is a great opportunity.

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All mentors will receive a mentorship guide and tools, short training session(s), a mentee and mentor contract template where both parties can agree on objectives and a certificate.

They will be expected to meet with the mentee 2-3 times for a duration of 30 to 60 minutes each between November 2024 and February 2025.

After the mentoring experience, if willing, some selected mentors will have the chance to win their participation in a 3-day programme that will take place face-to-face in Greece in autumn 2025 (spots are limited).

If you want to try the Women STEM-UP mentoring program as a mentor, please sign up through this form and we will reach out to you.

For more information about the Women STEM-UP  project, you can visit the website https://women-stem-up.eu/ or follow the social media:https://www.facebook.com/womenstemup/ or here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/88461645/admin/feed/posts/

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