Coding Girls in Turin at the A. Manzoni comprehensive school
On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the very young Angie Albitres was involved in the training sessions of the Coding Girls in Turin project with four first-year classes from the A. Manzoni comprehensive institute, a school led by the headteacher Rosa Maria Falanga. We share a brief comment from Angie about the day:
I had the privilege of meeting the first year classes of the IC A. Manzoni middle school and gathering the reflections of the students. The enthusiasm and awareness shown by the students was surprising. Nina, Gije and Francesco from class 1B clearly expressed their thoughts: ‘Everyone has the right to work where they want, especially in STEM subjects, and it is not right that women are excluded from these subjects. Let's achieve gender equality!’
Their classmates emphasised how important this day was for encouraging women to pursue a career in science. Leonardo, Alma and Francesco added: ‘Every woman, every man, every boy and girl should be able to choose what they want to do. Science is freedom of choice!’
But the comment that struck me the most was Caterina’s: ‘In my opinion, everyone, male and female, has the right to contribute to research and innovation. The stereotypes that have been created about women are wrong: if a girl wants to start a career in computer science, she can do it; if she wants to programme video games she can do it without anyone stopping her or telling her that it's wrong but above all that it's for men.’
Professor Federica Minarda concluded the meeting with a message of encouragement: ‘To all the girls who dream of a future in science: follow in the footsteps of the great scientists of the past, never stop exploring, asking questions and pursuing your dreams. The world needs your talent and your passion!’
Despite the progress made, the contribution of women to science has often been underestimated or ignored. This day celebrates not only the pioneers of the past, but also the young minds who today, with determination and passion, are breaking new ground in the scientific world. Progress needs everyone's contribution, regardless of gender.
