On February 11, the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a date proclaimed by the United Nations to recognize the work of women scientists, highlight their contributions, and advocate for equal opportunities in accessing and developing scientific and technological careers.
This day reminds us that talent knows no gender, but opportunities historically have. Even today, women remain underrepresented in many STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics), especially in disciplines such as artificial intelligence, computer engineering or physics. That is why creating real and relatable role models is so important: women who research, lead projects, innovate and transform our world. When a girl sees a woman doing science, she understands that this path can also be hers.
A Café con Ciencia to inspire future vocations
To celebrate this day, our center DaSCI is hosting a Café con Ciencia, an activity funded by the Fundación Descubre that aims to bring research closer to students in a direct, informal and engaging way. The format is simple yet powerful: a researcher sits at a table with a small group of students and, over a cup of coffee, they talk about science, technology, artificial intelligence, the life of a researcher, or the role of women in science. It is a relaxed environment that encourages questions, conversation and curiosity.
This year, we will welcome 55 students from IES Manuel de Falla (Maracena), who will have the opportunity to talk with six researchers from our center:
- Arantxa Urrea
- Martha‑Vasiliki Sourla
- Rocío Romero
- Coral del Val
- Irene Trigueros
- María Cribillés
Each of them will share their experience, career path and perspective on the current challenges in science and technology. It will be a unique opportunity for students to learn first-hand what it is like to work in research, what professional paths exist, and why diversity is essential for building a more complete and fair scientific community.
Why we celebrate this day
February 11 is not just a date on the calendar: it is a reminder that equality in science does not happen on its own. It requires actions, meeting spaces, visible role models and real opportunities so that girls and young women can imagine — and build — a future in science.
With initiatives like this Café con Ciencia, DaSCI contributes to opening doors, sparking vocations and showing that science is also written in feminine.
This activity is part of the Project “Ethical, Responsible and General Purpose Artificial Intelligence: Applications In Risk Scenarios” (IAFER) Exp.:TSI-100927-2023-1 funded through the Creation of university-industry research programs (Enia Programs), aimed at the research and development of artificial intelligence, for its dissemination and education within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan from the European Union Next Generation EU through the Ministry for Digital Transformation and the Civil Service.
