Brazil promotes women in STEM through National Science and Technology Week

Gender inequality remains a significant challenge in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. While women represent 43.7% of scientific researchers in Brazil according to the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), global data from UNESCO indicates that only 5% to 10% of women reach leadership positions in science.

To address these disparities, the Brazilian Federal Government, through the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), has designated ‘Ciência Delas’ (Their Science) as the theme for the 23rd National Science and Technology Week (SNCT) in 2026. The event is scheduled to take place nationwide from October 26 to November 1.

In the state of Bahia, activities will be coordinated by the State Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation (Secti) across various municipalities, including Feira de Santana, Salvador, and several cities in the Portal do Sertão and Chapada Diamantina regions. Discussions at local academic forums, such as those held at the University Center of Brasília (Ceub), have also highlighted the importance of overcoming professional barriers and providing diverse career paths for women in technology.