Frederick University’s “To all women and girls: Join the journey in Engineering and Technology” long-term initiative is one of 15 projects by 14 institutions that were selected worldwide and awarded the Advance HE Global Impact Grants 2023-24.

The grants are awarded with the aim to present 15 inspiring case studies of recent practice that align with the grant theme of contributing to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Frederick University’s initiative falls under the “Supporting reduced inequality and sustainable inclusion” subtheme.

“I’m delighted that we are able to award these grants to the successful applicants whose work particularly stood out in a very strong field”, Mr Ian Hall, Advance HE Head of Membership (International) said in a statement released on April 22. “Everyone in higher education has a role to play -large or small- in contributing to the SDGs and it’s vital to share good practice around the world. Advance HE is in a fortunate position to be able to convene good ideas and we look forward to sharing these case studies once they are developed.”

Advance HE, is a non-profit organisation based in the UK promoting excellence in higher education. It is dedicated to working with partners across the globe to improve higher education for staff, students and society, to understand different contexts and challenges in the higher education sector, and to deliver solutions. Advance HE currently works with over 400 institutions from around the world in order to promote institutional, staff and student success.

Ms Natassa Frederickou, President of the Council of Frederick University, commented: “Our University’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is showcased not only through our impressive standing in international rankings but also by this prestigious recognition. We are immensely proud of this achievement recognizing the critical significance of our initiative, which is implemented by the University’s Center on Gender Issues, Diversity & Equality and the University’s School of Engineering. By 2030, it is estimated millions of women worldwide will need to change careers and take on roles that require more sophisticated digital skills. If women do not make the necessary transition to technology and science, they will not have access to the job market and will be disproportionately affected by unemployment. It is thus evident that this is not a local matter rather than a global effort. We need women and girls’ diverse perceptions, experiences, and ideas in these fields. Achieving equal representation of boys and girls in these fields will contribute to a healthier planet and a fairer, more peaceful world, a world that is above all sustainable and meets the needs of future generations.”

Frederick University’s initiative aims to tackle the underrepresentation of women in the fields of Engineering and Technology, by empowering all women and girls to reach their full potential, eliminating prejudices and stereotypes and encouraging more girls to pursue studies and professional careers in these fields. To this end, Frederick University offers scholarships to all girls enrolling at the School of Engineering’s undergraduate programs of study. The scholarships cover 50% of the tuition fees and apply to the first academic year with the possibility of renewal, based on the academic performance of the student at the University.

Additionally, the University:
• organizes free STEM activities (STEM Days and Camps) for girls aged 9–16 led by female role models.
• hosts free workshops for parents and educators, emphasizing the importance of increased female representation in STEM, enhancing girls' self-confidence, and promoting a stereotype-free upbringing.
• raises awareness within STEM industries about the crucial need for gender diversity.
• provides mentorship opportunities to women in the School of Engineering.