Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that a free environment must exist in the country where women scientists can take leadership, contribute to development, and engage in innovation.
The prime Minister made these remarks while delivering the keynote speech at the Women Scientists’ Forum, organized by the faculty of Medicine, University Colombo collaborating with National Science Foundation (NSF) and Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS) on March 07 in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
The main objective of this forum was to foster a discussion on gender equality in the field of science in Sri Lanka.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further stated:
Women’s participation in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is essential for Sri Lankan socio-economic development. Policies promoting gender equality, equal representation in leadership, and the removal of obstacles and challenges faced by women in science are necessary steps in achieving this goal.
International Womens Day rather go beyond a celebration and it serves as a symbol of reflection, recognition, and action. The contributions and role of women in our society must be honored and acknowledged. Therefore, a strong commitment is required to eliminate the barriers hindering women’s leadership and advancement.
Increasing women’s representation and ensuring gender equality in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields are crucial for innovation-driven development in Sri Lanka.
Global research has shown that increasing female participation in STEAM fields leads to higher scientific outcomes, greater innovation, and more environmentally sustainable development.
The scientific capabilities of Sri Lankan women must not be hindered. A free environment must exist where women scientists can lead, contribute, and innovate.
Prime Minister’s Media Division