5.3 – Student Access Measures

5.3.4 – Women’s Application in Underrepresented Subjects

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) actively encourages applications from women in underrepresented fields through university outreach and collaborations with other universities, government bodies, and STEM companies, promoting women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), entrepreneurship, and leadership.

In collaboration with industry and government bodies, UKM organised the Career & Entrepreneurship Expo (CEE) 2023 to promote entrepreneurship among women in STEM sectors. CEO Day @ UKM featured three keynote women speakers to inspire female leadership, while UKM supported female students in the HSBC Malaysia Business Case Competition, demonstrating that women can excel in competitive business environments.

Additionally, UKM extends STEM outreach specifically to the Bateq Indigenous Community, focusing on encouraging Bateq girls to engage in STEM fields. These efforts highlight UKM’s commitment to fostering educational equity, empowering women, and supporting diverse communities.

Collaboration with Other Universities, Government Bodies and STEM Companies

1. Career and Entrepreneurship Expo (CEE) 2023  

The Career and Entrepreneurship Expo (CEE) 2023, held at UKM’s Chancellor Tun Abdul Razak Hall (DECTAR) on May 23-24, 2023, was an important initiative for promoting gender equality in career and business opportunities. The event provided a valuable platform for women, alongside men, to explore and pursue careers and entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in sectors where female representation has traditionally been lower.

In addition to supporting women in business, the expo involved Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) companies, offering further opportunities for women to explore career paths in STEM. This focus on STEM was crucial in addressing the gender gap in these fields. Moreover, high school students were invited to participate, giving them early exposure to career opportunities and educational pathways. The expo specifically aimed to promote STEM to everyone especially women, encouraging them to develop a strong interest and continue their studies in STEM fields.

Through these efforts, UKM ensured that the expo not only empowered women but also provided a space for all participants, regardless of background, to explore valuable opportunities, making sure no one is left behind in the growing business, entrepreneurial, and STEM sectors.

2. Program CEO Day@UKM  

The Program CEO Day@UKM, organised by the Department of Food Science, Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) in collaboration with the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC), provided an invaluable opportunity for students, including women, to engage with industry leaders. Open to all students, this program offered insights into industry practices and fostered connections that could lead to future employment and internships. Such initiatives are vital for preparing women to take on leadership roles in industries where they are often underrepresented.

Additionally, the program brought three keynote women speakers to demonstrate to students and the public that women can excel in STEM sectors. Their presence served as powerful examples, showcasing how women can thrive and lead in traditionally male-dominated industries, encouraging greater female participation and leadership in STEM.

3. HSBC Malaysia Business Case Competition 2023

UKM students, consisting of female participants, secured third place in the HSBC Malaysia Business Case Competition 2023, an arena that is typically dominated by men. This achievement not only underscores the increasing participation and success of women in competitive business environments but also demonstrates that UKM consistently supports and empowers women in every field. By excelling in a traditionally male-dominated competition, these female participants inspire others to engage in business studies and careers, further promoting gender balance and equality.

University Outreach

University Outreach to Promote STEM Among Bateq Indigenous Community

The Faculty of Science and Technology Student Organisation (PMFST), in collaboration with Yayasan Food Bank Malaysia (YFBM), successfully organised the “CSR Kem Rimba Bateq PMFST” program at Kem Rimba Bateq PMFST, Pos Changkung, Kampung Keniam, Taman Negara Pahang, from November 10 to 12, 2023. This initiative aimed to make a positive impact on the Bateq community, with a strong emphasis on empowering Bateq girls as part of the commitment to SDG 5: Gender Equality.

The program placed a special focus on introducing Bateq girls to STEM subjects, particularly Mathematics and Microbiology, to inspire their interest in fields where women have been traditionally underrepresented. These sessions aimed to equip the girls with knowledge and spark their curiosity about science and technology. The Microbiology class provided hands-on learning about microorganisms, making science relevant and accessible. Mathematics lessons were designed to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential tools for future success in STEM fields.

While the program also engaged Bateq boys to promote gender equality, the primary focus remained on ensuring that Bateq girls received the encouragement and resources necessary to pursue education in STEM, aligning with SDG 5. This initiative was a step towards ensuring that girls have equal opportunities in education and future careers, contributing to long-term gender equality in their community. Through this collaboration, UKM and YFBM aimed to empower Bateq women of the future by providing access to education and opportunities that would help them thrive in a modern, STEM-driven world.