ESP: Panama launches National Policy on Gender Equality in Science, Technology and Innovation to 2040

The National Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation (Senacyt) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) are pleased to announce the launch of the National Policy for Gender Equality in Science, Technology and Innovation of the Republic of Panama to 2040 (National Gender Policy STI 2040) and its Action Plan 2023-2025. The main objective of this important milestone is to promote gender equality in the scientific, technological and innovative fields of the country, empowering women and ensuring their full and effective participation in the sustainable development of Panama. Dr. Eduardo Ortega Barría, national secretary of Senacyt, highlighted the importance of promoting the participation of women in science, technology and innovation to achieve true gender equity in research centers and companies. He also stressed the need to increase scientific production, technological development and innovation in the country, and affirmed that women must be protagonists in the knowledge society and economy, represented in public policies and contributing to equitable development in the social, economic and environmental dimensions. Currently, women make up half of Panama's population and represent 60% of graduates in Science, Technology and Innovation. However, only 40% of them occupy positions related to these areas. Gender-based inequality persists in the STI ecosystem due to limiting structures and beliefs imposed by society, education, culture and communication. The Gender Diagnostic on Women's Participation in Science in Panama reveals that the areas of knowledge in which women specialize are not representative of those that provide the best development opportunities for the country. Therefore, it is essential to recognize, strengthen and enhance the talent and potential of women in science, technology and innovation to promote the social and economic transformations that Panama requires. The National Gender Policy-CTI 2040 covers all scientific and technological disciplines, from basic research to applied innovation, and focuses on improving women's access and participation in these fields. It also seeks to eliminate gender segregation in STI environments, awaken the interest of girls and young women in science and technology, increase the gender equality capacities of the actors in the STI ecosystem, promote the participation of women in innovation, and foster inclusive and transformative communication. SENACYT is committed to lead the implementation of this policy and its action plan, working hand in hand with public institutions, research centers, companies, associations, foundations and international cooperation agencies. In this way, it is expected to achieve a real and sustainable transformation in the STI ecosystem, where women have equal opportunities and are recognized as key players for the equitable and sustainable development of Panama.