International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026 (11 February): Date, Theme, Activities & Empowering Women in STEM

When Is It Observed?

Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

This day was officially proclaimed by the UN General Assembly on December 22, 2015 to promote full and equal access and participation of women and girls in the sciences.

What Is the International Day of Women & Girls in Science?

The International Day of Women & Girls in Science is a United Nations global observance that recognizes the critical role women and girls play in scientific advancement, innovation, and sustainable development. Despite improvements, women still make up less than one-third of researchers worldwide — and are even less represented in fields like AI, cloud computing, and data science.

This day is an opportunity to celebrate achievements, challenge bias, and promote inclusive practices that ensure women and girls can participate equally in all areas of science.

International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026 Theme

The official theme for International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026 is: “Synergizing AI, Social Sciences, STEM, and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls.”

This theme highlights the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI), social sciences, STEM education, and finance to create inclusive environments where women and girls can thrive in science and innovation. It emphasizes that addressing gender gaps in emerging technologies and research requires a multi-sectoral approach.

Why This Day Matters

Promoting Equality in STEM : Women and girls bring diverse perspectives to scientific discovery and innovation. Gender equality in science is essential not only as a human right but also for better research outcomes.

Breaking Down Barriers : Girls often face stereotypes and structural barriers that deter them from pursuing science careers — from lack of mentorship to funding disparities. This day encourages policies and practices to dismantle these obstacles.

Inspiring Future Leaders : By showcasing role models and success stories, this observance inspires the next generation of women innovators and scientists — helping girls imagine themselves in STEM careers.

How to Observe International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026

Here are meaningful ways to take part:

• Learn and Educate : Host or attend talks, webinars, or school activities that share knowledge about women's contributions to science and the challenges they face.
• Amplify Voices : Use social media with hashtags like #WomenInScience, #GirlsInSTEM, or #InternationalDayOfWomenAndGirlsInScience to share stories and facts that inspire others.
• Support STEM Education : Encourage girls to explore science through clubs, competitions, coding camps, and research projects.
• Promote Inclusivity : Workplaces and institutions can review policies, create mentorship opportunities, and promote equitable access to leadership roles in STEM.
• Partner with Organizations : Collaborate with groups that provide scholarships, internships, or mentorship for women and girls in science.

Quotes for International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026

• “Science and everyday life cannot and should not be separated.”

• “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

• “Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.”

• “Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world.”

• “I am among those who think that science has great beauty.”

• “Girls should never be afraid to be smart.”

• “Equity in STEM means giving everyone the tools to thrive.”

• “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”

• “The most exciting phrase to hear in science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not 'Eureka!' but 'That's funny…'”

• “You cannot be what you cannot see.”

Wishes & Messages for International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026

• Happy International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026! May we continue to break barriers in STEM.
• Celebrating women and girls whose curiosity and innovation shape our world.
• Wishing every young girl the confidence to pursue science fearlessly.
• Today we honor brilliant minds — may your discoveries inspire generations.
• Let's build a future where women thrive in every STEM field.
• To the women and girls pushing scientific boundaries — keep shining!
• Inclusion in science benefits us all — Happy International Day of Women & Girls in Science!
• May this day empower future women leaders in innovation.

Social Media Captions for International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026

• Girls belong in science — today and every day! #WomenInScience #Feb11
• Celebrating women who innovate, inspire, and lead in STEM.
• Women in science change the world — let's support them!
• From labs to leadership — women & girls make science stronger.
• February 11, 2026 — Empowering futures in STEM fields.

Poster Ideas for International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026

• Theme Focus: “Synergizing AI, Social Sciences, STEM, and Finance” — visual of science icons connected with inclusive design.
• Role Models Poster: Featuring famous women scientists like Marie Curie, Katherine Johnson, Tu Youyou.
• Future Innovators: Girls with science equipment and quotes about empowerment.
• Impact Visual: “Science needs women — the world needs diversity.”
• Global Collaboration: Globe with STEM symbols and diverse women and girls.

Conclusion

International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2026 highlights the critical role women and girls play in scientific research, innovation, and sustainable development. With the theme “Synergizing AI, Social Sciences, STEM, and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls,” this observance calls on communities, educators, policymakers, and industries to work together to close the gender gap in science and create equitable opportunities for all.

By celebrating achievements, sharing stories, and removing barriers, we can help ensure that the scientific world reflects the diversity of human potential and empowers the next generation of women scientists.