Inclusion will favor the finding of innovative solutions to global problems

Excluding girls from science not only limits their personal and professional growth, but also impoverishes the diversity of thought necessary to find innovative solutions to global problemssaid Cecilia Noguez Garrido, leader in computational physics and pioneer in the study of plasmonic nanoparticles.

In an interview with The dayin the context of International Women and Girl Day in Science, he said that it is essential Challenges of our time.

Without its presence, we are losing that richness that gives diversity, because of course we see the problems differently, we address them differently. Without them, we are limitedhe pointed out.

In addition, he stressed that if women do not have equitable access to these areas, they will face greater inequality in the future. These professions will be the best paid and those that will define the course of society.

Noguez Garrido, 2016 National Prize of Sciences, emphasized that social barriers persist for the participation of women in science. He identified three key factors, the myth that only outstanding students can devote themselves to these careers; The lack of knowledge about what a scientist does and what are their professional opportunities, and the absence of female models, which makes girls difficult to identify with scientific careers.

“I remember an exercise in which girls approached to talk with researchers from different disciplines and could explore their interests. I was surprised to see that they knew perfectly what they liked and what didn’t. And that insecurity came from his parents, with phrases such as: ‘It is that my mother tells me no …’, ‘My dad tells me that it is not for me. ”

Physics, who has participated in initiatives such as Stem girls can, He stressed that it is necessary to implement concrete strategies to reverse this situation. There should be monitoring programs in schools and involving parents, their role is fundamental.

In addition, he considered that Mexico must transform its educational system, which remains based on the memorization of concepts. This kills interest in science. Being a scientist implies questioning, asking the right questions and looking for your answers.

From the governmental field, he considered it essential to grant incentives to those who promote the inclusion of women in Stem.

For physics in semiconductors, women’s day and girl in science should not be seen as another ephemeris, but as an opportunity to promote concrete strategies that favor gender equity in science.

To girls who have interest in science, I tell them that there are many opportunities and slopes to explore. We must not accept the idea that science is only for men or that you cannot live on it. You have to knock down those prejudiceshe concluded.