As the world transitions into a technology-driven era, the role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) becomes increasingly critical. Yet, gender disparities in STEM persist, limiting our collective ability to innovate and address pressing global challenges. Investing in programs that support girls in STEM is not just an ethical imperative but also a strategic one. Insights from the Girls Go Circular initiative, the Future of Jobs Report 2025, and the European Commission underscore why targeted action is crucial.
Bridging the Digital Gender Gap
According to the European Commission’s Women in Digital Scoreboard 2021, women represent only 41% of STEM graduates in Europe and a mere 19% of ICT specialists. Closing this gap is not just about equality—it has economic implications. An increase in the number of women entering the digital skills market would generate an additional annual EUR 16 billion for the European economy.
The GGC program demonstrates the transformative impact of early intervention. From 2020, by empowering over 48,000 girls across Europe with digital and entrepreneurial skills, this initiative is proving that structured programs can inspire young women to lead in fields critical to the green and digital transition. Initiatives like Girls Go Circular enhance technical competencies and foster confidence, critical thinking, and a belief in the ability to drive meaningful change.
The Jobs of the Future Are STEM-Centric
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 predicts that by 2030, technology-related jobs, including roles in AI, big data, and renewable energy, will dominate the fastest-growing sectors. However, skill gaps remain a significant barrier, with 63% of employers identifying them as a major challenge to workforce transformation.
Women and girls must be equipped to fill these roles. Programs like GGC are aligning their curricula with industry demands, training participants in areas such as robotics, AI, and circular economy principles. By doing so, they not only prepare young women for the jobs of the future but also help build a diverse, resilient workforce.
Results of Girls Go Circular 2024
In 2024, the GGC program reached remarkable milestones. Over 21,000 girls successfully completed courses, and the program expanded to 35 countries and offered 18 specialized modules in 24 languages. The courses covered diverse topics, including AI, robotics, sustainable mobility, and the circular economy, aligning with critical competencies such as DigComp, EntreComp, and GreenComp.
The program also facilitated vibrant extracurricular activities, such as the STEM Challenge, which attracted 85 teams and culminated in a dynamic STEM Forum where 20 teams showcased their projects. Furthermore, initiatives like the AI for Gender Equality Student Challenge empowered participants to develop innovative solutions, with 234 girls from 24 European countries engaging in critical discussions about AI’s ethical and societal implications. Since its beginning, the program has empowered over 48,000 girls, establishing itself as a cornerstone for addressing the digital gender gap and fostering leadership in STEM fields.
Women and Girls in STEM Forum, Budapest 2024
A highlight of the 2024 GGC program was the Women and Girls in STEM Forum, held in Budapest. This flagship event brought together over 200 participants, including students, educators, policymakers, and industry leaders, to celebrate the achievements of young women in STEM. The forum featured inspiring keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, and students’ presentations of groundbreaking projects. One of the key attractions was the AI for Gender Equality Student Challenge, where teams of three girls pitched innovative AI-based solutions to tackle gender inequalities in various sectors. The forum recognized outstanding talent and fostered networking and collaboration, inspiring participants to drive community change. The event showcased the power of education and mentorship in empowering the next generation of women leaders in STEM.
A Multiplier Effect on Innovation
Diversity drives innovation. Teams that include women perform better, solve problems more effectively, and generate higher revenues. Yet, as global employers adopt new technologies and transition toward a green economy, ensuring equitable access to these opportunities is vital. This is especially true in lower-income regions, where demographic trends indicate a growing working-age population that could drive economic transformation.
Programs like Girls Go Circular highlight the importance of inclusivity in STEM. From incorporating boys in collaborative classroom environments to hosting international challenges that showcase young women’s potential, these initiatives create ecosystems where innovation thrives through diversity.
A European Commission Perspective
The European Commission emphasizes the need for gender equity in STEM to tackle global challenges such as climate change and technological advancement. Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, Director-General for Education, Youth, Sport, and Culture, stated: “More women must lead Europe’s next generation of scientists and innovators to tackle challenges like climate change and ensure no one is left behind. Initiatives like #GirlsGoCircular are crucial in turning this vision into reality, empowering young women to drive change and create a brighter, more inclusive future.”
The Commission’s Digital Education Action Plan and Women in Digital Scoreboard allow initiatives like Girls Go Circular to flourish. By promoting programs that equip young women with critical skills, the European Union is ensuring a more inclusive workforce capable of addressing the complex challenges of tomorrow.
A Call to Action
The path forward is clear: to build a sustainable, equitable future, we must invest in girls in STEM. Programs like Girls Go Circular provide a scalable model for empowering the next generation of innovators. However, scaling these efforts requires resources. Together, we can expand access to life-changing programs, close critical skill gaps, and ensure that no talent is left untapped.
We can bridge the digital gender gap and unlock the full potential of young women worldwide.
Join us in driving the change that will shape the future.
JA Europe contact for Girls Go Circular
Monique Wong (monique@jaeurope.org)
