Boosting gender equality in science and technology : a challenge for TVET programmes and careers

Abstract

"While technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has the potential to bolster the participation of women in the labour market, this potential is not always well understood and capitalized on. In general, female students are lowly represented in TVET compared to general programmes, and in particular girls and women tend to be under-represented in the fields that require science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills and knowledge. In addition to being required for ‘traditional’ and ‘emerging’ occupations, STEM skills and knowledge are often needed for the so-called ‘jobs of the future’, driving innovation, inclusive growth and sustainable development. Greater female participation in these programmes and careers can potentially contribute to their empowerment and drive social well-being. Gender inequalities in access to STEM related fields in TVET, however, can affect the access to and participation of women in specific occupational areas.This report examines the key issues concerning girls and women’s participation and achievement in STEM-related TVET programmes and their transition STEM related careers. It synthesizes existing literature and country experiences collected from members of the UNEVOC Network, UNEVOC’s worldwide platform of TVET institutions." (Author's abstract ; BIBB-Doku)