Girls Meet STEM: Tokyo’s Commitment to Female Empowerment

On June 11, at “Girls Meet STEM in TOKYO Office Tour for Middle and High School Girls” held at GovTech Tokyo, Governor Koike encouraged female students to explore a broad range of subjects without feeling pressured to choose between the arts or sciences. This ongoing initiative is designed to provide girls with an opportunity to communicate with STEM professionals and expand their future career possibilities. 

“Today, the arts and sciences are increasingly intertwined, working together to find solutions,” Governor Koike told the students. “What matters most is choosing something you truly enjoy, because you will naturally become better at what you are passionate about,” she added.

Then, referring to a breakthrough that Japanese society urgently needs, the governor said it lies with women. “Companies that leverage the talents and potential of women will thrive and create a virtuous cycle, attracting even more talented women,” she said. In an effort to increase the number of female managers, the governor added that the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is encouraging female employees to take on the challenge of the management-level exams. “As a result, the number of examinees has grown by 20%. Increasing the presence of female managers will enrich the TMG administration by incorporating a broader range of perspectives,” she said.