By Heherson P. Valdez
As the world moves towards a more inclusive and sustainable future, the role of women in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) has become increasingly critical and essential. Women bring diverse perspectives, drive economic growth, and create solutions that address community challenges. However, despite their potential, they remain underrepresented in STI, especially in the Philippines.
In line with the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC), the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) champions this year’s sub-theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas”. This campaign reinforces the country’s commitment to gender equality and empowering women across all sectors, as enshrined in Republic Act (RA) 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women. NWMC serves as a platform to recognize the invaluable contributions of women in nation-building and innovation.
As an advocate of gender inclusivity in STI, the Department of Science and Technology - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) actively promotes women's participation in the innovation ecosystem. Through its Gender and Development (GAD) programs, DOST-TAPI integrates gender equality principles into its initiatives, ensuring that women have equitable access to resources, capacity-building, and leadership opportunities in technology and entrepreneurship. By fostering a gender-responsive innovation landscape, the Institute supports women in advancing scientific discoveries and technological solutions that benefit communities and industries alike.
But why do we need more women in STI, and how does their representation impact the innovation ecosystem?
Here are the top five reasons why women should be integral to the innovation landscape:
1. Diverse Perspectives lead to better Innovation
Diversity in innovation drives creativity and problem-solving. A research survey by McKinsey & Company (2019) indicates that women tend to demonstrate leadership traits more often than men, making them well-suited to address future global challenges. Women bring unique experiences and perspectives that enhance product development and decision-making, leading to more inclusive and effective solutions.
2. Women Drive Economic Growth
Empowering women in entrepreneurship and STEM fields significantly contributes to economic development. According to a study by the Boston Consulting Group (2019), if women and men participated equally as entrepreneurs, global GDP could rise by $5 trillion. Encouraging women to enter and lead in innovation ecosystems can boost job creation and economic prosperity.
3. Gender-Inclusive Teams Create More Innovative and Impactful Solutions
Studies indicate that gender-diverse teams offer solutions that cater to a broader audience. The Harvard Business Review (2021) highlights that when women join the C-suite (highest levels/senior executive positions), they not only introduce fresh perspectives but also reshape how top leadership approaches innovation, allowing companies to explore a broader range of value-creation strategies.
4. Women in Leadership Foster Inclusive Workplaces
When women take leadership roles in innovation-driven organizations, they contribute to more equitable work environments. The World Economic Forum (2023) states that gender-balanced leadership improves workplace policies, encourages mentorship, and creates opportunities for the next generation of women in STEM.
5. Addressing Global Challenges Requires Women’s Insights
From climate change to healthcare and artificial intelligence, the world’s biggest challenges require innovative solutions informed by diverse perspectives. Women play a crucial role in developing human-centered solutions that address community challenges, particularly in agriculture, education, the environment, public health, and other sectors of society. The United Nations (UN) emphasizes that gender equality in science and innovation is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Empowering Women in Innovation: A Key to Progress and Development
According to UNESCO, gender inequality in science hinders scientific advancements, slows national development, and challenges efforts to build peaceful societies. Ensuring equal participation in science, technology, and innovation (STI) is not just a matter of principle, it is a fundamental human right and a global priority.
The inclusion of women in the innovation ecosystem goes beyond promoting gender equality; it is about recognizing their critical role in driving economic, social, and technological progress. To bridge this gap, governments, institutions, and industries must collaborate in designing policies, programs, and funding opportunities that empower women innovators. By championing gender diversity, we can unlock the full potential of the innovation ecosystem, drive technological advancements, and create a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
** This article is part of the DOST-TAPI’s National Women’s Month Campaign. For more information and event updates, please visit the DOST-TAPI website at www.tapi.dost.gov.ph. For media inquiries, please get in touch with Ms. Mirielle Vacal at +639567113145 or Mr. Heherson Valdez at +639064477735, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. **
