“Girls plus math and computers equals a bright equation”

“The event aimed to identify and overcome gender stereotypes, to discover accessible identification models, but also to better understand the professions of mathematics, IT and the digital sector,” explains mathematician Nathalie Ayi, one of the co-organizers of the event.

Vice President Research and Innovation, Elisabeth Angel-Perez, highlighted the importance of scientific disciplines and the opportunities they offer in a constantly changing world. But she also discussed the challenges faced by girls in science: despite the progress made, statistics still show an imbalance between genders, particularly linked to a lack of confidence and persistent stereotypes. “For a lack of female examples, a lack of female representation in scientific fields, girls tend to abandon these disciplines, or to lower their ambitions,” declared the Vice President.

“The Girls plus math and computers equals a bright day” was designed to encourage young girls to learn from the testimonies of women scientists and the diversity of their life paths to broaden their range of possibilities and believe in their ambitions. This day was led by Nina Aguillon, Nathalie Ayi, Aurélie Beynier, Mathilde Carpentier, Daphné Giorgi, Fanny Pascual, Nathalie Sznajder and Maud Thomas—all mathematicians and computer scientists from the Pierre and Marie Curie campus.

With this in mind, the middle and high school students attended two scientific presentations, one focusing on fluid mechanics, the other on quantum technologies, delivered by committed teachers and researchers, such as Eleni Diamanti or Isabelle Gallagher. In the company of undergraduate students, an orientation meeting and a tour of the campus, including the mineral collection, allowed participants to discover the environment of Sorbonne University. Then, during a speed meeting, the students had the opportunity to interact with women who have studied mathematics or computer science, today occupying various positions, in the academic world or in business.

The aim of such meetings is also to break down preconceived ideas linked to scientific careers. The day ended with a forum theater play by the Laps Company/morning team, addressing the gender stereotypes that young girls face on a daily basis and opening the possibility for dialogue on how to deconstruct them.

Thanks to the commitment of the organizers, speakers and students from Sorbonne University, this day allowed middle and high school girls to envision a future in science and to believe in their abilities.