PRESS STATEMENT: FEMALE ROLE MODELS NEEDED

Erfurt, 10 February 2022. February 11 is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The United Nations created the day to recognize the role that girls and women play in science and technology.

Prof. Dr. Alexandra Wuttig, Chancellor of IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU): "We need to get more girls and women excited about STEM subjects and professions, about research and science. To do this, we need female role models who present fields of activity that are true to life. As a University of Applied Sciences, we are already creating a wide range of opportunities to start a career in STEM fields. With increasing success, we are specifically supporting women who choose to study IT or technology. But we need to create enthusiasm for STEM subjects at an early age and break down the barriers in girls' minds much earlier.

It is not about persuading girls and young women. Rather, it is about giving them a clear idea of professions with an IT, technical or scientific focus. At present, the field still seems too abstract for many girls and women. The 'normal', everyday female role models lack visibility. They can show that every woman can gain a foothold in professions in IT and technology as well as in science and make a difference – without being considered nerdy and also with a family life."

ABOUT IU INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES
With over 85,000 students, IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU) is the largest university in Germany. The private, state-recognised educational institution brings together more than 200 Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes under its roof, which are offered in German or English. Students can choose between on-campus study, dual study, distance learning and flexible combination models and thus shape their studies in a self-determined way. In addition, IU facilitates continuing education and promotes the idea of lifelong learning. The university's goal is to make education possible for as many people as possible. IU began operations in 2000 and is now represented in 28 German cities. It cooperates with over 10,000 companies and actively supports them in employee development. Its partners include Motel One, VW Financial Services and Deutsche Bahn. Further information at: www.iu.de/en