The 10th anniversary of the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education was celebrated in Beijing on September 20, 2025. The event highlighted the profound impact of science education in empowering women to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world. Peng Liyuan, the wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping and UNESCO’s special envoy for the advancement of girls’ and women’s education, emphasized the importance of equipping women with the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of the modern age.
During her address, Peng stated, “We must place greater emphasis on women’s science education,” urging for enhanced support to ensure that women can fully engage in the technological revolution. Her call to action resonated with attendees, underscoring the necessity of fostering innovative capacities in female students globally.
Success stories from various education initiatives illustrate the ongoing transformation in women’s education. In rural Uganda, the Promoting Equality in African Schools (PEAS) program has established safe and supportive environments for nearly 300,000 students annually. Notably, the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) has helped over 617,000 young women in Zambia complete secondary education since 2001, empowering them to become role models in their communities.
China’s Commitment to Gender Equality in Education
China’s recent achievements in closing the gender gap in education further support Peng’s message. Official statistics indicate that as of 2024, girls comprised 47.3 percent of kindergarten students, 46.98 percent in nine-year compulsory education, and 49.3 percent in high schools. In higher education, women represent 50.76 percent of enrolled students, marking a significant increase of 14.15 percentage points since 1995.
To bolster participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), China has implemented various initiatives. One such initiative is the “Exploring the Future” program, launched by the China Women’s Development Foundation in 2018, which aims to inspire girls aged 12-16 by providing hands-on exposure to university labs and research environments. So far, this program has engaged over 8,200 students across diverse fields, from mechanical engineering to biophysics.
At the ceremony, Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, commended China’s ongoing support for global educational initiatives. Since hosting the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995, China has actively contributed to promoting gender equality and women’s education worldwide. The State Council Information Office recently reported that China has co-established the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education and supported numerous projects focused on maternal and child health as well as vocational training for women and girls.
A Vision for the Future
Peng Liyuan reaffirmed China’s dedication to empowering women through education, stating, “China has always attached great importance to advancing women’s science education.” She expressed optimism for future collaborations with UNESCO and other organizations to strengthen women’s education globally.
The outcomes of these initiatives highlight the critical role of education in transforming lives, especially for young women in underserved regions. By prioritizing science education and fostering a culture of innovation, the global community can contribute to a future where women are leaders and innovators, equipped to meet the demands of an evolving world.
