Ho Chi Minh City, April 5, 2025 – The STEMherVN communication event titled “Women in STEM – Equally Creative” was successfully held at the Ho Chi Minh City Economics and Technology College (HOTEC), to raise awareness and promote efforts to eliminate gender-based barriers that hinder women’s participation in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This event was a key activity under the STEMherVN 2024 project, implemented by the Management and Sustainable Development Institute (MSD) – United Way Vietnam, in collaboration with HOTEC and the Nha Be District Youth Union, with financial support from the Qualcomm Foundation and MiTek Group.
The “Promoting Girls’ and Women’s Participation in STEM” project, abbreviated as STEMherVN, has been implemented by MSD since 2022. It aims to inspire and empower female students to access education and pursue careers in STEM. In 2024, the project is supported by the Qualcomm Foundation and MiTek Group.
“Women in STEM – Equally Creative” Communication Event
The event attracted nearly 200 students—primarily female—from four high schools in Nha Be District: Duong Van Duong High School, Nguyen Thi Huong High School, Long Thoi High School, Phuoc Kien High School, the Vocational Education and Continuing Education Center of Nha Be District, and HOTEC.
Group photo of stakeholders at the “Women in STEM – Equally Creative” Communication Event
According to UNESCO statistics in 2023, globally, fewer than 30% of women pursue studies or careers in STEM. In Vietnam, the figure is slightly higher at 37%, but this still reflects a significant gender gap in these fields. Social stereotypes, limited support resources, and a lack of inspirational role models remain critical challenges for girls aspiring to STEM careers. STEMherVN seeks to change this reality through communication, training, mentoring, and career orientation activities—breaking gender stereotypes and empowering girls to thrive in STEM, thereby contributing to innovation and sustainable development.
During the event, female high school students were not only inspired by real-life stories about career opportunities in STEM but also had access to practical knowledge about learning pathways and self-development. The program featured sharing sessions by university students who provided insights into effective learning methods, skills development, and building self-confidence in pursuing STEM majors. Moreover, students had hands-on experiences with technology and science activities at HOTEC, making STEM more engaging and applicable.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Phan Van Thanh Can, Vice Rector of HOTEC, praised MSD and the STEMherVN project for creating a valuable opportunity for high school students to visit and explore the academic environment at HOTEC. “HOTEC is currently one of the largest public colleges in Ho Chi Minh City, offering diverse training programs aligned with labor market needs. The school emphasizes real-world learning experiences, equipping students not only with theoretical knowledge but also practical skills. HOTEC graduates are eligible for transfer to reputable universities within the National University system, such as the University of Economics HCMC and the University of Science. Our flexible, high-quality training model opens many doors for the younger generation.” – Mr. Phan Van Thanh Can said.
Mr. Phan Van Thanh Can, Vice Rector of HOTEC
Mr. Thang Ha, Training Services and Technology Capability Lead at MiTek Vietnam, shared insights on the role of businesses in promoting STEM education and women’s empowerment: “STEMherVN presents a wonderful opportunity for students to explore and experience potential future careers. At MiTek, we believe gender diversity is key to driving creativity and innovation. We’ve seen many breakthroughs led by women who bring fresh and inspiring perspectives. In fact, the majority of leadership positions at MiTek are held by women, proving that opportunities are open to anyone who dares to dream and strives for them. STEM is not just about dry knowledge—it’s a space of creativity, growth, and continuous innovation. I hope you remain confident and passionate in pursuing your dreams.”
Mr. Thang Ha, Training Services and Technology Capability Lead at MiTek Vietnam
Ms. Tran Van Anh, Deputy Director of MSD, discussed the current state of gender stereotypes in STEM and emphasized the motivation and mission behind the STEMherVN project. She expressed gratitude to partner institutions, ambassadors, and stakeholders for their efforts in advancing equal access to STEM education. “Women are just as capable of being creative in STEM fields as men. Yet due to barriers and social biases, women remain underrepresented in these sectors. Through STEMherVN, we aim to support and empower young girls to pursue their passions and harness their strengths in STEM. Today’s event is not just about listening and watching—it’s about hands-on experience, stepping out of your comfort zone, and discovering what you are capable of. I hope you leave here not only with knowledge but with inspiration and the belief that you can achieve your academic and career goals.” – Ms. Tran Van Anh said.
Ms. Tran Van Anh, Deputy Director of MSD
University and high school ambassadors of STEMherVN also shared their STEM journeys and emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance in helping female students gain confidence in entering science and technology careers. During the event, STEMherVN 2024 ambassadors received certificates recognizing their role in spreading the project’s values to student communities nationwide.
Nguyen Hoang Phuong Trinh, a student from the University of Science, VNU-HCM and a STEMherVN 2024 University Ambassador, shared: “In today’s ever-evolving tech-driven world, you absolutely can pursue your passion in science, coding, and engineering—fields that are shaping our future. Whether you’re in high school or university, continuous learning and dreaming big will unlock endless opportunities. I believe education not only builds our future but also empowers us to break limits. I’m sincerely thankful to STEMherVN, MSD, and everyone here today for creating such an inspiring journey.”
Nguyen Hoang Phuong Trinh, a student from the University of Science, VNU-HCM and a STEMherVN 2024 University Ambassador
In Ho Chi Minh City, the project has selected 16 outstanding female students with an interest in STEM to serve as high school ambassadors. Nguyen Mai Anh, a 10th grader from Duong Van Duong High School, shared: “Before joining STEMherVN, I used to worry whether I was suited for science. I feared that girls would face more obstacles in this field. But thanks to the project, I now believe that passion knows no gender. With determination and effort, anyone can overcome challenges in science and technology.”
Nguyen Mai Anh, a 10th grader from Duong Van Duong High School, a STEMherVN 2024 Ambassador
Beyond delivering inspiring messages, the event integrated gender equality education and raised awareness about women’s roles and potential in STEM. The interactive quiz “STEMherVN Challenge – Who’s Faster?” allowed students to enhance their STEM knowledge through fun questions and creative practice activities alongside the ambassadors.
The Unitour program at HOTEC guided students through modern science and technology stations, where they observed firsthand the application of STEM in real-life learning environments and explored various STEM-related professions. These hands-on activities not only helped demystify STEM but also sparked enthusiasm and confidence in students to pursue a future in science and technology.
Through this event, MSD and the STEMherVN project aim to provide orientation, connection and expanded opportunities for girls to confidently explore STEM. The “Women in STEM – Equally Creative” communication event in Ho Chi Minh City served not only to deliver valuable insights on STEM education and career prospects, but also to foster awareness, promote female participation, and gradually dismantle gender barriers in science and technology. It is part of a broader series of long-term activities aimed at generating positive change in gender equality in education and careers—nurturing a new generation of confident and proactive women in STEM in Vietnam.
Sự kiện
Bài viết liên quan
