First published in Listín Diario
Digital technologies are rapidly changing the world, but what happens when half the population is left out? In the Dominican Republic, women and girls are underrepresented in key areas like technology, science, mathematics, and engineering, hindering the country's social and economic development.
According to data from CEG-Intec (Gender Studies Center of the Technological Institute of Santo Domingo), 18% of Dominican university students in ICT careers are women. The disparity is even more alarming considering that only 5% of Dominican women graduating from tertiary education earn degrees in STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), compared to 28% of men, according to the World Bank's Dominican Republic Gender Scorecard.
The trajectory of girls and women in ICTs can be understood through the metaphor of a "leaky pipeline." Girls tend to have good academic results during primary school, but the lack of visible female role models in STEM and social expectations limits girls' perceived potential from an early age.
The situation worsens when fewer women graduate from school – as we pointed out in other publications – and far fewer study university programs in STEM. In the workplace, the have less access to jobs and managerial positions in these sectors.
According to our Gender Assessment, working conditions in ICT and STEM are often incompatible with family life. This disproportionately affects Dominican women due to their domestic burden. In fact, STEM fields are predominantly male and can be hostile towards women, reinforcing gender barriers and generating workplace discrimination.
How can we move towards the inclusion of girls and women in the digital age?
At the World Bank, we are committed to enhancing the lives of Dominican girls and women. The INSPIRE project helps to link young people, especially women, with paid employment and entrepreneurship opportunities that can set them on the path to sustainable livelihoods. However, there are still many leaks in the pipeline.
To ensure the equitable participation of women and girls in ICTs and STEM careers, we recommend:
- Actively tackling gender stereotypes in education, promoting a scientific and technological identity in girls from an early age.
- Increasing the visibility of female role models in STEM, showcasing success stories that inspire new generations.
- Facilitating specific funding through scholarships and internships for women students and researchers, ensuring their permanence and professional development.
- Promoting inclusive and family-friendly work environments, eliminating discriminatory practices and offering flexible working conditions.
The opportunity is now
We are living in a historic moment to encourage the inclusion of girls and young women in studies and professions in the field of technological careers.
The recent report "The Future of Work in Central America and the Dominican Republic" highlights that STEM careers will be crucial in the labor markets of the future. These sectors are among the fastest-growing and best-paying jobs, and are closely related to innovation and economic productivity.
It is time to ensure that Dominican girls and women are prepared to fill these positions, something that not only responds to a labor market need, but represents a win-win opportunity: for women, for their families, and for the Dominican Republic to position at the forefront of technological and economic development.
