International Day of Women and Girls in Science: From policies to laboratories and lecture halls

According to data from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia, 11% of female secondary school students were enrolled in STEM fields of education in the academic year 2024/25. In 2024, women accounted for 33% of graduates and 35% of doctoral graduates in these fields. Among researchers holding a doctoral degree, the share of women has been gradually increasing, reaching 45% in 2020. However, as Assistant Prof. Dr Jasmina Šepetavc pointed out in the February issue of e-Univerzitetnik, although girls today, unlike their grandmothers, are able to pursue university studies, this does not yet mean that a supportive academic environment has been fully established. 

On this year’s occasion, the Rector of the University of Ljubljana, Prof. Dr Gregor Majdič, emphasised: “Each year, on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we are reminded of how important it is to recognise the contribution of women scientists to the development of the university and of society. In paying tribute to their work, I reaffirm our commitment to the principles of equality and equal opportunities, as well as our obligation to continue creating an academic environment that strengthens the personal and professional potential of women scientists employed at the University of Ljubljana. I believe that through their example we inspire younger generations of girls to pursue science.”

A supportive environment that does not remain confined to strategies and plans is essential, added the Vice-Rector for Study and Student Affairs, Prof. Dr Ksenija Vidmar Horvat: “On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we at the University of Ljubljana give special thought to all women researchers and scientists who, through their knowledge and work, address the dilemmas of the present and build the society of the future. To enable them to develop their potential as smoothly as possible, we have designed a range of measures and policies, from raising awareness of the principles of equality to preventing sexual violence; we have instituted trusted persons and opened an Office for Equality and Inclusion, the first at any university in Slovenia. By learning from good examples, we are creating an inclusive academic environment that brings benefits to all.”