About Us
This platform is a collaborative effort between “Mentoring Her” and UNDP Kyrgyzstan, developed under the Digital x programme. Digital x is initiated by UNDP's Chief Digital Office and Global Policy Network, with support from the Government of Japan, to scale digital solutions across borders, highlighting the collaborative efforts and joint commitment to promote digital innovation.
Why STEM Matters in the Future of Work?
In Kyrgyzstan, only one out of every three girls has computer literacy skills, and women make up only 31.1% of tertiary graduates in STEM. These disparities are attributed to various challenges, including gender stereotypes, a lack of female role models, and limited access to resources and networks.
The World Economic Forum predicts that more than 90% of future jobs will require digital skills equipped with strong STEM foundation, with professions like data analysis, AI and machine learning, and big data specialists becoming increasingly important. Men remain dominant in these emerging professions, in the future of work. This gender-based disparity is particularly concerning, given that an estimated 180 million women's jobs globally are projected to be automated in the next 20 years. To remain competitive in the labour market, reskilling and upskilling with internet and technology become essential for women. Increased employment in STEM leads to higher wages and productivity, which may in turn help to reduce the gender-based pay gap in the long term.
UNDP Kyrgyzstan, in partnership with the regional UNDP & UNICEF platform STEM4ALL, is actively investing in STEM. Through storytelling campaigns, UNDP showcases the achievements of STEM role models and inspire the next generation of female leaders. Moreover, the STEM4ALL mentorship digital platform in partnership with “Mentoring Her” connects aspiring professionals and industry leaders with STEM women through a comprehensive mentorship program. By fostering mentorship, promoting successful women in STEM, and curating the STEM4ALL community, we are creating an empowering environment for both women and men to reach their full potential and prepare for the future of work.
