STATUS OF FEMALE REPRESENTATION IN STEM FIELDS: A FOCUS ON ENROLLMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN BANGLADESH

Abstract

This study explores the status, challenges, and prospects of women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Bangladesh. Despite achieving near gender parity at the primary and secondary levels, female representation in STEM disciplines remains disproportionately low at higher secondary and tertiary education levels. Analysis of enrollment and dropout trends, supported by primary data collected from 200 female students across 10 universities, reveals structural, socio-cultural, and economic barriers that limit women’s participation in STEM. Findings indicate that financial constraints, gendered subject selection, lack of role models, and cultural expectations surrounding marriage contribute to persistent underrepresentation. While female enrollment exceeds 60% in health-related fields, participation remains below 26% in engineering and technology programs. Comparative insights from Asian countries such as Malaysia highlight the importance of early STEM integration, mentorship, and policy support. The study underscores the need for systemic interventions, including gender-sensitive curricula, targeted scholarships, mentorship programs, and institutional reforms, to foster equitable access and encourage women’s engagement in STEM. These measures are essential for developing a skilled workforce aligned with the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and SDG 5).