International Day of Women and Girls in Science Archives - MAIA https://www.maiaimpact.org/tag/international-day-of-women-and-girls-in-science/ Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:22:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.maiaimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/512-150x150.jpg International Day of Women and Girls in Science Archives - MAIA https://www.maiaimpact.org/tag/international-day-of-women-and-girls-in-science/ 32 32 STEM: an engine for transformation https://www.maiaimpact.org/bloging/stem-an-engine-for-transformation/ Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:45:50 +0000 https://www.maiaimpact.org/?p=9569
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STEM: an engine for transformation

How mathematics, logic, technology and science open new possibilities for Girl Pioneers

At MAIA, we believe learning goes beyond acquiring knowledge—it’s about developing the ability to analyze, question, and make informed decisions—which is why we intentionally prioritize logical and critical thinking as a foundation for life. Mathematics, technology, logic, and science are not just subjects taught in the classroom; they are tools that allow Girl Pioneers to understand their surroundings, face challenges, and build solutions with purpose and meaning.

As Celestina Poz, Co-Director of the MAIA Impact School, explains: “At MAIA, we intentionally prioritize mathematics, logic, and science because they are fundamental pillars for holistic development. They strengthen critical thinking through problem solving connected to the students’ own contexts, with a level of rigor that invites them to analyze, question, and explore different strategies, allowing them to build their own processes to reach well-founded solutions.”

Transforming the learning experience

Within Guatemala’s educational context, many girls begin secondary school with significant gaps in mathematics and science. This reality does not define their potential, but it does shape the challenges they must overcome to continue their educational journey with confidence.

According to Sofía Cuc, a mathematics educator, in a recent BBC news report: “Some students enter the MAIA Impact School at 12 or 13 years old without the expected ability to add, subtract, or multiply.”

In this matter, Celestina Poz adds: “In Guatemala, there are significant gaps in mathematics and science within public education, the result of an educational system that does not always guarantee the development of the skills, competencies, and knowledge needed to begin lower secondary school. Aware of this reality, we created the Impulso program, designed to intentionally strengthen the academic foundations that Girl Pioneers need for their educational trajectory.”

Throughout their time at the MAIA Impact School, transformation goes beyond academic results. The way students see themselves also changes—strengthening their empowerment and their ability to solve problems in their daily lives, which in turn transforms dynamics within their families and, eventually, their communities.

From the classroom, this process is clear. Yulisa Julajuj, natural sciences and chemistry educator, shares: “As Girl Pioneers grow academically, I see how confidence transforms the way they learn. They participate more confidently, actively engage in problem solving, and understand mistakes as part of the scientific process.”

Results that reflect new opportunities

Our commitment to a strong, contextualized STEM -Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics- approach is reflected in concrete results. In 2025, MAIA’s Girl Pioneers scored 60 percentage points above the national average in mathematics, demonstrating what is possible when students receive consistent support, high expectations, and meaningful learning opportunities.

This impact extends beyond secondary school. In 2026, 65% of MAIA graduates are now pursuing university degrees related to science, including engineering, architecture, medicine, nursing, accounting, and business administration. These outcomes reflect educational pathways that continue to open and informed decisions that expand professional horizons.

Transformation also becomes visible when students participate and excel in broader academic spaces. In 2025, three Girl Pioneers from MAIA were winners in different national competitions in mathematics and science, including STEM-related competitions.

Reflecting on these achievements, Yulisa notes: “The main challenge is sustaining motivation, strengthening confidence, and overcoming contextual barriers. However, experiences like Alexandra’s in Guatemala’s National Science Olympiads or thewinners at CIMAT (STEAM competition) show that when students are given opportunities and proper guidance, they can reach high levels of scientific performance.”

Science, equity, and the future

At MAIA, we are convinced that transformation begins with a quality education that recognizes each student’s potential and creates the conditions for it to fully develop. Investing in science is investing in equity, autonomy, and futures in which young women actively participate in the creation of knowledge.

As Celestina affirms: “It is important for girls and women to be involved in science because we have the capacity, talent, and diversity of perspectives needed to innovate, create change, and contribute decisively to scientific and social development.”

On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate the Girl Pioneers who question, explore, and transform. Their journey reminds us that when science is accessible and meaningful, it can truly become a powerful engine for transformation.

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