The "Beyond Biases: How to Attract More Women in STEM" panel at the recent Women in STEM Cyprus Forum brought together industry leaders and experts from various sectors to explore strategies for increasing female participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Moderated by Freda Yannitsas, CEO of Cyprus Mail, the discussion featured Polina Georgakopoulou, Chapter Leader of the Dataflow team at MUFG Investor Services; Monica Ioannidou Polemitis, Founder and CEO at Hybrid ConsulTech; Christos Papadopoulos, Chief Education Officer at the Ministry of Education, Sport, and Youth; and Yulia Tarasova, Co-Founder at KidIT.

Challenges and Solutions for Women in STEM

The panelists tackled a range of challenges that women face when entering and advancing in STEM fields, particularly for those re-entering the workforce after career breaks or starting new ventures. Polina Georgakopoulou emphasized the need for companies to adopt supportive policies, structured onboarding programs, and an inclusive culture that encourages diversity. She highlighted that awareness and continuous training are essential in breaking down gender barriers and ensuring that women feel empowered and valued in the workplace.

Monica Ioannidou Polemitis called for a shift in the narrative around STEM careers, focusing on problem-solving and real-world applications rather than technical stereotypes. She also pointed to the critical role of mentorship and networking in helping women navigate their careers, find opportunities, and build confidence. By connecting women with role models who have succeeded in STEM, companies and organizations can inspire more young women to pursue these fields.

Integrating STEM Education from an Early Age

Christos Papadopoulos shared insights into national initiatives aimed at integrating STEM education from an early age. He outlined efforts such as revising school curricula, establishing after-school STEM clubs, and fostering partnerships with industry players to provide hands-on learning experiences. He emphasized that inclusive teaching practices are key to fostering equal participation and building a strong foundation for all students, including young girls who might otherwise shy away from STEM subjects.

Yulia Tarasova offered a perspective from her experience with KidIT, advocating for early exposure to technology as a tool rather than a gendered skill. She stressed the importance of breaking stereotypes by showing parents and children that tech can be a creative and engaging field. By encouraging kids to explore the wide range of applications in tech, from design to robotics, Yulia believes it’s possible to inspire a new generation of women leaders in STEM.

A Call for Broader Cultural Change

The panel concluded with a consensus on the need for broader cultural change, enhanced policies, and greater collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions. By working together, stakeholders can build a more supportive ecosystem that encourages more women to enter and thrive in STEM careers. The discussions underscored the importance of creating environments where women feel included, supported, and encouraged to grow, not only for their benefit but for the innovation and diversity they bring to the STEM fields.

The "Beyond Biases: How to Attract More Women in STEM" panel serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. By addressing biases, promoting inclusive practices, and inspiring young women from an early age, the path can be paved for a future where women are equally represented and celebrated in STEM.