Digital technologies are rapidly altering the global landscape, yet many Dominican girls and women remain underrepresented in fields like technology, science, mathematics, and engineering. This underrepresentation impedes the social and economic progress of the Dominican Republic.
Data from CEG-Intec (Gender Studies Center of the Technological Institute of Santo Domingo) reveals that only 18% of Dominican university students in ICT fields are women. Furthermore, a World Bank report highlights that just 5% of Dominican women obtain degrees in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), compared to 28% of their male counterparts.
The journey of women and girls in ICTs reflects a "leaky pipeline" metaphor, where they initially perform well academically in primary school but face declining representation due to limited female role models and societal expectations. This trend continues with fewer women completing school and even fewer entering university STEM programs. In the workforce, women encounter restricted access to jobs and leadership positions within these sectors.
The World Bank's Gender Assessment indicates that work conditions in ICT and STEM often mismatch family life, disproportionately affecting women by reinforcing gender barriers and workplace discrimination.
The World Bank has committed to improving the situation through the INSPIRE project, which aims to connect young people, especially women, with employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. However, steps must still be taken to ensure women's and girls' equitable participation in ICT and STEM careers. These steps include:
- Tackling gender stereotypes in education and promoting girls' scientific and technological identities early on.
- Increasing the visibility of female STEM role models, sharing success stories to inspire future generations.
- Providing scholarships and internships for women, supporting their education and professional growth.
- Creating inclusive, family-friendly work environments, eliminating discriminations, and offering flexible work conditions.
The timing is crucial, as highlighted by the report "The Future of Work in Central America and the Dominican Republic," which points to STEM careers as critical to future labor markets. These careers hold potential for growth, high pay, and increased innovation.
Ensuring Dominican women and girls can access these opportunities is both an economic necessity and a chance for the Dominican Republic to lead in technological and economic advancements.