By Alzira Dinis
“What are enabling factors that contribute for gender representation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics?” Alzira Dinis, specialised in environmental and sustainability sciences, writes about her perception and experience about the representation status of young women in technical vocational education fields. She brings a hopeful view towards gender representation, sharing with us various opportunities, that in her experience, favour women motivation and interest in pursuing studies and careers in clean energy and STEM fields.
“In vocational education, clean energy and STEM courses still remain male-dominated, though interest from women, particularly from Brazil and Mexico, is gradually rising. While explicit barriers are diminishing, subtle biases and underestimation of women and foreigners persist in both classrooms and workplaces globally. At my institution, women freely choose their courses, and both genders actively collaborate on initiatives that foster engagement. Although curricula are not specifically tailored for female students, internships and partnerships with companies provide inclusive opportunities. Socioeconomic data collection considers multiple factors, enabling targeted support for students with socioeconomic or special needs.
General scholarships, welcome events, and company partnerships are accessible to all, promoting equitable transitions into the workforce. Success stories, such as female alumni in leadership roles within sustainability, highlight the impact of mentorship and practical projects. Encouraging women in research, providing mentors, and fostering hands-on opportunities are seen as key to enhancing accessibility and appeal in clean energy education, as in other fields.”.
About the Author
Alzira Dinis holds a PhD in Earth Sciences and an MSc in Materials Engineering. She is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University Fernando Pessoa in Porto, Portugal. Alzira is specialised in environmental and sustainability sciences, with particular expertise in ecology, environmental health and earth sciences.
About STAR Girls
STAR Girls is a EU-based initiative aimed at encouraging young girls in pursuing studies and careers in Clean and Renewable Energy sectors (CREs) through localised mentorship programmes in Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Netherlands. One of the main resources will approach the several barriers and enablers of young women’s decisions in pursuing studies and careers in CREs, as based on national-led desk and field research findings. This article is part of the interviews occured in Oporto, Portugal, that will feed this document.
Stay updated @ Star Girls!
Previous Articles on “Voices of Change”
