A scientific and educational event “SDG 5: Gender Equality in Science and Education” was held at KazNU

As part of teaching practice and in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 5) “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls,” first-year bachelor’s students of the 6B05109 “Neuroscience” program at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, under the guidance of a master’s student Amina Maramova from the Department of Biophysics, Biomedicine and Neuroscience, organized a scientific and educational event aimed at developing an understanding of the principles of gender equality and its role in the development of science and society.

During the event, participants were introduced to the concept of gender equality as a foundation for fair and sustainable development. The key objectives of SDG 5 were also discussed, including the elimination of discrimination, ensuring equal access to education, and increasing women’s participation in scientific and public activities.

Special attention was given to the role of women in science and STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). Participants learned about the contributions of outstanding women scientists such as Marie Curie and Rita Levi-Montalcini, whose discoveries had a significant impact on the development of physics, medicine, and neuroscience. Modern challenges were also highlighted, including the underrepresentation of women in science and the persistence of gender stereotypes.

As part of the program, the following activities were carried out:

·        a thematic lecture on the importance of gender equality within the framework of sustainable development;

·        discussion of women’s contributions to the development of science and technology;

·        analysis of gender stereotypes and their influence on educational and career choices;

·        a discussion session aimed at developing critical thinking and identifying ways to create equal opportunities in the academic environment.

During the discussion, participants addressed issues of equal opportunities in modern science and personal responsibility in fostering an inclusive educational environment.

The event contributed to raising students’ awareness of gender equality issues, developing critical thinking skills, and fostering an active civic position. Participants emphasized the importance of creating equal conditions for realizing scientific potential regardless of gender, as well as the need to further promote the principles of inclusivity in education and science.