A WOMAN’S QUEST FOR EQUITY

by Mel Migriño , Chairman and President, Women in Security Alliance Philippines

March was International Women’s Month, it celebrated the contributions of women in technology, science and other industries. However, a continuing effort is needed to inspire both men and women who have doubts about pursuing a career in technology, science or engineering.

According to the National American University, in 2022 only 24 percent of computing jobs were held by women and only 19 percent of university graduates majoring in STEM subjects were women. This underrepresentation could be the result of differing social norms and expectations. All people, whatever their gender, should have equal opportunities to start a technical career or pursue a course in STEM.

Here are some key imperatives for advancing gender equity.

1. GIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN TO LEAD, AND RECOGNISE MEN AS ALLIES IN THEIR STRIVINGS FOR SUCCESS.

A study published by the Harvard Business Review said diverse teams produced more innovative ideas. When people of different genders and with different backgrounds work together they bring different perspectives that produce greater creativity, and innovation is key to creating a progressive, digitised economy.

2. SUPPORT WOMEN STARTUP BUSINESSES. Companies with female owner(s) and female executives prioritise the hiring of women. This is important to help equalise disparate salary rates. Also, the inclusion of women brings more perspectives to the design of new products, services or solutions. It increases opportunities for growth through business partnerships and collaboration.

3. GROW THE SUPPORT ENVIRONMENT FOR WOMEN.

Women often have second thoughts when contemplating a job in technology, or a career shift. It is crucial they have a sense of belonging. Organisations should aim to promote women’s empowerment and develop women leaders who can work hand-in-hand with male leaders in their respective organisations, and so boost their confidence to do work in which men have long played leading roles.

4. INSPIRE AND PROGRESSIVELY SUPPORT STUDENTS TO TAKE UP STEM COURSES. Increasing the number of women enrolling in STEM courses would help bridge the skills gap for technology and cybersecurity. Male and female STEM students who embrace diversity and equity could encourage others to take up STEM studies.

5. GIVE EQUAL RIGHTS AND RECOGNITION TO WOMEN UNDERGOING HEALTH OR MATERNITY BREAKS.

We have seen women who have experienced career setbacks after getting married because their priorities have been divided between career and family. Women who prioritise family matters should not be disadvantaged. They should be given opportunities to lead, to take on key projects in their organisations and allowed to balance work and family priorities. www.linkedin.com/in/mel-migriño-b5464151 www.linkedin.com/company/wisap-women-in-securityalliance-philippines

Projects succeed not only because of processes and technology but because of people’s attitudes and abilities, and women’s abilities and attitudes stem from their family roles.

The journey to gender equity is long and far from complete. We need to view and respect people without bias and discrimination, regardless of their gender. Equity gives people of every gender the opportunity to move up the career ladder unimpeded by biases.