She said available data show a persistent gender gap in STEM education and employment in Indonesia, a concern as the sector underpins knowledge-based economic growth and the country’s ongoing digital transformation.
“Many women excel in science and mathematics, yet they still face social barriers and gender stereotypes that limit their participation,” she said in Jakarta on Monday.
Moerdijat cited 2024 data from the International Labour Organization showing women account for around 35 percent of STEM graduates in Indonesia, while those working in related sectors represent only about eight percent.
The figures indicate that many women who study STEM subjects ultimately do not pursue careers in science and technology, highlighting a significant loss of skilled human resources for the country.
“This data shows the main issue is not women’s academic ability,” she said.
Moerdijat said barriers often emerge early in life through social expectations and stereotypes that shape girls’ confidence in science, technology and mathematics, discouraging them from exploring technical fields.
Such environments, she added, can unintentionally lead many young women to regard STEM careers as unrealistic or unattainable paths despite their academic potential.
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At the same time, demand for a technology-driven workforce continues rising as Indonesia’s digital economy expands and industries increasingly adopt artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.
Expanding women’s participation in STEM is therefore a strategic step to ensure the country has sufficient skilled workers to navigate technological change and intensifying global economic competition.
“If half of the nation’s intellectual potential is not given the same space to grow, we lose a major opportunity to strengthen national innovation and competitiveness,” she said.
Moerdijat urged policymakers to ensure education systems and human resource development strategies place greater emphasis on encouraging women to pursue science and technology fields.
She said schools and universities must foster inclusive learning environments that allow women to actively participate in research, scientific discussions and academic leadership roles.
The deputy speaker said building a more inclusive education ecosystem would open wider opportunities for young women to contribute to innovation, technological advancement and scientific development nationwide.
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Translator: Bagus Ahmad, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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