As the world grapples with the challenges of promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, Singapore’s Minister of State for Education and Labour, Gan Siow Huang, has shed light on a critical issue that persists in the city-state. Despite progress in recent years, Singapore still lags behind in terms of representation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Speaking at the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association’s Women’s Conference, Gan emphasized the need for the industry to step up its efforts in promoting gender equality.
While the proportion of women in STEM careers has increased from 29% in 2014 to 35% in 2024, Gan pointed out that women remain underrepresented in many areas. One of the key challenges, she noted, is the disproportionate burden of family care responsibilities that women often bear, which can impact their work experience, career advancement, and salaries. To address this, Gan proposed a three-pronged strategy: encouraging girls to take an interest in STEM subjects from a young age, creating workplaces that support female employees with family care responsibilities, and providing women with access to mentorship and guidance that can help them navigate their careers.
The issue of workplace discrimination was also high on Gan’s agenda. She stressed that such biases can prevent women from entering and advancing in male-dominated industries like the semiconductor sector. However, she highlighted that the newly enacted workplace fairness law, which came into effect in January, will provide stronger protections for women against discrimination based on their gender, family responsibilities, and pregnancy. This development is a significant step forward in promoting a more inclusive work environment and addressing the systemic barriers that have long hindered women’s progress in STEM fields.
As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial that employers and policymakers prioritize creating a level playing field for women in STEM careers. By doing so, they can tap into a vast pool of talented individuals and foster a more diverse and innovative workforce. The benefits of such an approach extend far beyond the individual, as a more inclusive economy can drive growth, improve productivity, and enhance Singapore’s competitiveness on the global stage. As Gan’s remarks underscore, the time for action is now, and it is up to all stakeholders to work together to create a more equitable and thriving STEM ecosystem.
In conclusion, the journey towards achieving gender parity in STEM fields is a long-term commitment that requires sustained efforts from all parties involved. By acknowledging the challenges, proposing effective solutions, and implementing meaningful change, Singapore can pave the way for a brighter future where women have equal opportunities to succeed and contribute to the nation’s growth and prosperity.