Empowering Girls in STEM: Tokyo's Office Tour Initiative Launches

Girls Meet STEM in Tokyo: Empowering Future Generations

Tokyo is taking significant steps to promote the involvement of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This initiative specifically targets junior high and high school girls by offering them unique opportunities to explore career paths in the STEM fields through office tours.

The first tour of this academic year took place on June 11 at the offices of GovTech Tokyo, a public corporation dedicated to advancing digital transformation in the Tokyo government. The event included 23 students from Shinagawa Women's Academy, who participated in a demonstration utilizing generative AI and engaged in a panel discussion with employees from GovTech. During the event, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike addressed the students' inquiries and shared her experiences, offering valuable insights and encouragement for shaping their futures.

Governor Koike's Words of Encouragement

At the event, one student expressed her desire for guidance on how to avoid future regret regarding her field of study. In response, Governor Koike emphasized the intertwined nature of the humanities and sciences in real life, suggesting that it's essential for students to focus on their passions. She mentioned, “In university and beyond, your personal interests will guide your path. Focusing on what you love will serve you well.”

These words resonated with many students, who left feeling inspired and motivated to pursue their aspirations in the tech field. One student commented, “Hearing about various professions during the panel discussion helped me identify what I want to do.” Others expressed gratitude for the support from the Tokyo government in increasing the number of girls in STEM careers.

Expanding Opportunities for Young Women

The office tours are part of a larger effort that began in 2022, which has significantly scaled up participation and impact. In collaboration with the Shintaro Yamada D&I Foundation, they plan to expand from 12 organizations last year to over 50 this year, reflecting a growing demand for such initiatives. Over the three years leading up to 2024, the program is set to engage a total of 18 companies, catering to the needs of over 1,000 interested students, given the enormous interest — around 10,000 applications received last year.

Surveys conducted three months following the tours indicate a remarkable response, with 97% of participants expressing increased interest in STEM fields, while over 80% noted changes in their attitudes or actions related to their studies and career decisions. Students reported that attending the tour solidified their intentions to choose science and technology paths and sparked their interest in digital careers.

Key Voices from the Tokyo Government

Tokyo deputy governor, Matsumoto, emphasized their commitment to creating a society where everyone can choose their life paths regardless of gender. This focus on supporting girls in STEM is aimed at eliminating barriers and inspiring the next generation of female leaders. With the expanded offerings, Tokyo aims to enhance engagement and awareness among young women, helping them discover various options available to them.

A Nationwide Impact

Shintaro Yamada D&I Foundation’s initiative, “Girls Meet STEM in TOKYO,” aims to create lasting connections between young women and potential careers in STEM, helping them build interest and understanding before making educational decisions. By sharing this successful model, they hope to extend the reach of such programs nationwide, providing girls everywhere with opportunities to engage with the STEM industry.

Tokyo's efforts reflect a broader recognition of the urgency to cultivate female talent in STEM fields, especially considering Japan ranks lowest among OECD countries in the percentage of women in STEM careers. In the face of a substantial shortfall in female STEM professionals, expanding these programs becomes crucial for the future of women's representation in technology and innovation.

In conclusion, initiatives like 'Girls Meet STEM' are not just bridges to potential careers; they are vital steps toward a more inclusive future where young women can thrive in science and technology.