International Women’s Day is a good day to highlight the many achievements of women in all areas of national life — but particularly in STEM.
During the last few years we’ve come to understand how the size of the seed may account for elevated levels of toxins in our national fruit, ackee; and measures that we all can take to reduce or prevent illness associated with ackee consumption.
We’ve also learnt more about the living environment which accounts for elevated levels of mercury in the blood of many children and what that may mean for brain development, learning and autism.
And we’ve also been able to develop new varieties of papaya that are resistant to the destructive ringspot disease.
I am proud that each of these developments has been led by or involves Jamaican women working in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
Like the rest of the world, Jamaica does not have enough women in STEM, but the work that our women researchers continue to do is simply remarkable and deserving of our recognition and respect.
As we turn the spotlight on women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, I hope to inspire young women to consider careers in this important area where they can help to find solutions to pressing real world issues.
Jamaican women bring their special perspective, intelligence, talent, creativity, diligence, resilience, and hard work to every role they undertake. I am confident that we will see and feel the difference when more of our sisters take their place in STEM. I am absolutely clear that we get the maximum benefit when women and men work collaboratively, harmoniously, and as equals to deal with the challenges of our time.
Today, let us encourage, affirm, protect and show maximum respect, love and appreciation to our women.
Let us re-commit and do our part to make Jamaica a great place to be a woman and a girl — a place where we can all achieve our potential and contribute to nation building in any way that we choose.
Happy International Women’s Day
