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Excellencies,

Dear scientists,

It is an honor to join you all for this 7^th International Day for Women and Girls in Science.

The inclusive and diverse representation of women scientists here in this meeting is in itself an achievement and inspiration.

I commend the Royal Academy of Science International Trust, the Permanent Missions, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ Agencies and affiliations, for their tireless efforts and support in putting together this event.

Excellencies,

The evolution of science has benefited from the contribution of women in many areas.

It was the contribution of women that led to breakthroughs for new medicine and new health prospects.? It was women that were among the many firsts in space, discovering planets and new frontiers. And it was the work of women that revolutionized digital advancement.

It goes without saying that the achievements of women have been nothing less than extraordinary.

In recognizing these achievements, we acknowledge impeding factors at play for women and girls in science.? The deeply rooted and unacceptable gender inequalities that impede women and girls in science to prosper.?

This is not only a tragedy for the millions of girls who aspire to be scientists, but a loss for a world in need of their talents, their creativity, their genius, and their drive.

Which is why we are here today. To promote the engagement of women and girls in science. To spotlight the barriers of gender inequality that discourage women and girls to freely pursue their goals and ambitions, including in the fields of science.

Because it is unacceptable that women are still underrepresented in science.

It is unacceptable that only 33% of global researchers are women. That despite their breakthroughs, to date, only 23 of the 631 Nobel Prizes in science have gone to women.?

And it is morally unacceptable that women are still paid less than their counterparts, despite having the same qualifications and skills.

As a global citizen, I am embarrassed that this continues to form part of society.

As a leader, positioned to elicit change, I am committed to use every platform and opportunity to advocate for gender equality, to ensure that more women and girls are given the opportunity to excel, and break glass ceilings.

Excellencies,

The selection of today¡¯s theme ¡°Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Water Unites Us¡± is timely and fitting.

There are 2.2 billion people around the world reported to lack access to safe water.

When thinking about water, gender is probably the last thing on many people¡¯s minds.

In many developing countries, women are the de facto water decision makers in households.

And its a fact that the entire chain of water management, whether it is technology choices, decision making, implementation, benefits and risks are all gendered.

As the world¡¯s population grows and climate change intensifies water scarcity, women are key to providing more sustainable access to this finite resource.

Coming from a small island state, I know too well the severity of a water crisis.? The challenges of brackish and unsafe drinking water brought on by the effects of climate change are real and life threatening.

Engaging more women and girls in science can help multiply breakthroughs and alleviate water scarcity.

Research suggests that when women are involved in the management of water resources, their communities get measurably better outcomes including better-functioning water systems, expanded access, and economic and environmental benefits.

Excellencies,

As we celebrate women and girls in science, let us recognize those women and girls who are working to address water-related challenges. From ensuring safe drinking water, to providing proper sanitation, to addressing issues of water around agriculture or climate change.

And let us ensure that every woman and girl has the opportunity to learn and excel in the fields of science. We need more minds working on our common problems, not fewer!

Education is integral to this. By putting in place the right systems and institutions, by ensuring that they are open and accessible, we empower women and girls.

For a young girl who aspires to search for signs of water on the moons of Jupiter, or who aims to explore the depths of the Ocean, or who is committed to solving community water shortages, education can take a daydream and turn it into an ambition.?

Education allows young women and girls the chance to help shape our shared goals for a greener and bluer future, including around SDG 6 for clean water and sanitation.

As President of the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ General Assembly, I am committed to supporting women and girls in any way, including in providing pathways for women and girls who aspire for a career in science, who aspire to follow in the footsteps of many successful women scientists.

Excellencies,

Improving education, and in turn the engagement of women and girls in science, is a collective responsibility.? One that urges national governments, the international community and key stakeholders to mobilize a whole-of-society approach for inclusive and equal learning spaces.

Let us work together to ensure more women and girls are given the opportunity to innovate, invent and inspire in the fields of science.

To world leaders, the international community, civil societies, and the private sector, I call on each of you to raise your commitments and support on this front.

To women scientists and aspiring girls in science – Keep doing what you do. Keep breaking grounds for others to follow. Keep pursuing your goals and dreams.

And as you do, rest assured I will keep doing all I can – to ensure women and girls in science can thrive freely and equally.

I wish you all a productive and successful discussion.

Thank you.