Several studies show that the number of women working in science, technology and engineering (STEM) fields is particularly low, and that few women apply for STEM-related courses when choosing a career. According to Eurostat’s survey, the proportion of female scientists and engineers in the EU varied in 2022. While in Denmark, Lithuania or Bulgaria, the proportion was over 50%, in Finland, Germany and Hungary it was only around 30%. Although there has been some overall improvement, women are still largely under-represented in these fields.
‘Girls in tech’ to be launched
In response, Yettel is launching a scholarship program titled “Girls in tech” in cooperation with the John von Neumann IT Faculty of Óbuda University open for applications on 22 May. The program aims to make mobile technology and engineering more attractive to young women. The total budget of the scholarship is HUF 5 million per year, which can be won by 4 students per semester. The winners will be selected by a jury of experts delegated by the mobile operator and Óbuda University.
“Education has always been a strategic area for our company, whether it’s digital literacy for children and parents, or increasing the number of women in ICT. As an employer, we believe in the business benefits of a diverse workforce, which is why we have been working with the Women in Science Association for many years. Through this scholarship program, we aim to encourage young women and girls to explore their talents and opportunities in IT and engineering. Our goal is to give more and more women the opportunity to excel in these fields in the future, as we believe that the knowledge they gain can help them achieve attractive career and life paths,” said Enikő Szalai, Chief HR Officer Yettel Hungary.
With the scholarship, Yettel will help students realise an existing scientific project in the field of IT or engineering, and will also provide them with professional advice from company experts during the research period and after graduation. The program will be launched as a pilot project in the first year, and its continuation will be decided based on the evaluation of the results.
“Our university is committed to increasing the presence and success of women in engineering and IT. In recent years, we have been pleased to see a dynamic increase in the number of female students, but these numbers are still far below the desired level. With this in mind, the 'Girls in tech' scholarship program provides not only support but also a strong motivation for talented female students to engage and excel in the world of IT and engineering and choose this great career path. Those selected for the scholarship will not only receive financial support, but will also become an active part of a community where they can consolidate their position in this fast-growing field through mentoring and professional contacts. It is our universal responsibility to help female students realize their academic and professional dreams in every way possible. We believe that knowledge and new perspectives enrich both education and industry, contributing to a more diverse, inclusive and vibrant society,” said Dr György Eigner, Dean of the John von Neumann Faculty of IT at Óbuda University.
Details of the program can be found on the website of the John von Neumann Faculty of IT of Óbuda University: https://nik.uni-obuda.hu/girls-at-tech-yettel-osztondij/.