To mark International Women’s Day, the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology held a special meeting led by the Director-General of the Ministry, Omer Shacter, dedicated to promoting women in science, applied research, and advanced technology industries.
During the meeting, updated data were presented on the participation of women in applied research, high-tech, and space industries, alongside the existing wage gaps and structural barriers between men and women.
During the discussion, possible policy tools and measures for promoting women in science and technology were also presented, including the expansion of dedicated programs such as “Future Scientists,” which the Ministry leads for young girls in STEM studies, and the examination of affirmative action mechanisms as implemented in various European countries.
The meeting, attended by senior management, also included 2 leading female executives recently appointed to key positions in the Ministry as part of Minister Gila Gamliel’s policy to strengthen the management ranks with outstanding women: Dr. Shimrit Maman, Chair of the Israel Space Agency; Prof. Miri Yamin, the Ministry’s Chief Scientist; also attending the meeting was Dr. Esther Lotzato, Chair of the Committee for the Advancement of Women in Science and Technology.
In the past week, and in anticipation of International Women’s Day, the Ministry launched several initiatives for the general public. Among other things, a network campaign was launched showcasing over 30 outstanding female researchers conducting groundbreaking research funded by the Israel National Science Foundation, a central engine for promoting research excellence in Israel. The Foundation is managed by the Chief Scientist, with an investment of approximately 130 million NIS focused on applied research. (2025).
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Gila Gamliel stated on the occasion of International Women’s Day :
“Reducing the gaps between women and men in science and technology is a top national priority for strengthening the country’s resilience. Gender diversity is not just a social value – it is an engine of innovation, excellence, and research mobility, which will develop and strengthen Israeli science also on the global stage. We must act to integrate women into the research and technology ranks from a young age, to ensure that our diverse human capital is fully reflected in Israeli public life and in the senior management of the Ministry.”
Ministry Director-General Omer Shacter said at the discussion:
“Leading female scientists and researchers are at the forefront of research and innovation in Israel. Promoting their participation in science and technology is a necessary condition for strengthening scientific excellence and maintaining Israel’s competitive advantage in the world.”
The campaign is published on the Ministry’s social media networks and can be viewed on the website:
https://www.gov.il/he/pages/woman_science
In addition, the Ministry held (Sunday) a special webinar in collaboration with the AI community on the topic of “Gender-Breaking Technologies,” where researchers presented studies dealing with gender biases in artificial intelligence and robotics and their implications for society and technology.