I consider myself a man of science. And I do not want to presume or pretend to give myself importance, but to emphasize that, faced with convictions installed by repetition, unquestionable dogmas or customary rights, I will always defend reasoned facts, empirical evidence and reality as a source of knowledge. With which, I can only affirm without hesitation that men and women are equal in abilities, aptitudes and intelligence.
This February 11 is celebrated worldwide as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, an event aimed at reflecting on the central role that women should be recognized in the field of scientific research and to promote STEAM vocations (Engineering, Mathematics, Science and Technology) in students.
Nobody doubts today that we are talking about subjects that need the talent of the new generations so that we can continue to progress towards the future, and that this talent does not understand genders but competence, brilliance and passion.
However, although thanks to the Government's equality policies and the work of educational centers the gap is narrowing, there is still a long way to go, especially in careers such as engineering and architecture, which are strongly masculinized.
And like the proverbial fish that bites its tail, the absence of women in research throughout history and the intentional invisibility to which those who dared to break molds and challenge the established have been subjected, generates a lack of role models among students when they assess their training and professional options.
It is time to recognize and shout to the four winds that women have always been part of the history of scientific knowledge, and that they have always been belittled by the macho society and the patriarchal system.
It is time to assume that science and technology are basic pillars for the social and economic development of communities, and that progress is only possible when equality is pursued and achieved.
From the Socialist Party we have been promoting the access of girls to university studies in the scientific and technological field for years, through various programs and information campaigns.
We cannot afford to waste fifty percent of the capacity and intellect that researchers, mathematicians, engineers, scientists, architects and all the professionals who are willing to lend a hand to respond to the great challenges of our century can contribute for any longer.
Pedro Viera, Deputy Spokesperson for the Socialist Parliamentary Group
