Why inspiring the next generation of women and girls in AI is so important

To mark International Women and Girls in Science Day, and in light of recent governmental commitments to the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), Professor Elena Gaura discusses why inspiring the next generation of women in STEM, particularly AI, is not just a matter of equity but a necessity for technological progress and ethical innovation.

The gender gap in STEM fields is a long-standing issue, perpetuated by ingrained stereotypes that associate scientific and technological fields with masculine traits. This systemic bias has led to a cyclical lack of female role models, limiting mentorship opportunities and reinforcing unconscious biases in hiring, promotion, and grant funding processes. As a result, women and girls continue to encounter significant barriers to entering and advancing in these fields.

International Women and Girls in Science Day aims to tackle these disparities by promoting equal access to and participation in STEM. However, addressing gender imbalances is not just about increasing representation - it is about fostering diversity of thought, which is essential for innovation and ethical technological development.

The Role of Women in AI Development

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our professional and personal lives, ensuring diverse perspectives in its development is paramount. AI systems are shaped by those who design them, meaning that a lack of gender diversity can lead to biased algorithms that fail to serve broad societal needs. Without the contributions of women, the risk of encoding and perpetuating discriminatory patterns in AI models becomes a pressing concern.

Diversity in AI development does not only help mitigate bias - it fosters creativity, enhances problem-solving capabilities, and ensures that emerging technologies reflect a wider range of human experiences. Studies have shown that teams with balanced gender representation produce more innovative solutions, making the case for increased female participation in AI even stronger.

Moreover, ethical considerations are at the forefront of AI discourse, with growing concerns about accountability, transparency, and societal impact. Women bring vital perspectives that enhance these discussions, emphasising empathy, collaboration, and ethical responsibility in AI implementation. Ensuring their active participation is not a symbolic gesture but a fundamental step towards creating responsible and inclusive AI systems.

What should be clear is that this is not a cry for better representation, it’s a call for a practical necessity needed to address issues that often go unnoticed. Recognising this necessity, Coventry University Group is committed to breaking down educational and professional barriers for women in STEM. One of our key initiatives, in collaboration with the British Council, provides STEM-focused Masters by Research programmes for women from South Asia. This effort is designed to foster long-term change by equipping female scientists with the skills and support needed to excel in their fields.

Additionally, through partnerships with the Indian Department of Science and Technology, the British Council, and the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI), we have launched the Women in Science Leadership Programme (WiSLP). This initiative supports female scientists in attaining leadership positions, empowering them to navigate and challenge institutional obstacles. By fostering a global network of female STEM leaders, we can help drive systemic change and enhance women’s impact in scientific research and technological development.

Conclusion

Women and girls in STEM are not a luxury - they are a necessity. The rapid advancement of AI and its influence on society demands diverse perspectives to ensure ethical, innovative, and equitable technological solutions. If we are to truly harness AI’s potential, as recent government policies advocate, we must continue to expand opportunities for women and girls in STEM.

This is not merely about gender equality; it is about securing a future where technology serves all of humanity, rather than a select few. The call to action is clear: investing in women in STEM is an investment in a more inclusive and forward-thinking future.