STEM gender gap may limit innovation and growth: report

Only 30% of women surveyed believe equal career opportunities exist in STEM, compared to 41% of men.

As Singapore’s tech sector surges—with a 25% increase in roles over the past five years—new research warns that persistent gender gaps in STEM could limit the country’s future innovation capacity and economic growth.

The report, released by United Women Singapore (UWS) and supported by Abbott, found that misconceptions and structural barriers are discouraging young women from pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)—just as demand for such talent accelerates.

A survey of 1,000 Singaporeans, aged 18 to 34, revealed that misconceptions about high-pressure environments, poor work-life balance, and intense competition are top deterrents.

Whilst the proportion of women in STEM roles has grown to 35% in 2024 from 29% in 2014, fewer than one in four women feel they have the support needed to succeed in those roles.

Only 30% of women surveyed believe equal career opportunities exist in STEM, compared to 41% of men.

The study also found that male allies in STEM underestimate their influence. Whilst 40% of women believe men should advocate for equal pay and promotion, far fewer men identified that as an area where they could make an impact.

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