We undertook this European project to help reduce the gender gap in STEM by strengthening the skills of lower-secondary school teachers (ages 11–15) in managing gender diversity. Our focus was on promoting gender-aware teaching, challenging stereotypes, and implementing inclusive STEM education practices. Through this approach, we aimed to encourage more girls to pursue STEM subjects and careers, while equipping teachers and educators with the knowledge, strategies, and tools to foster equitable learning environments.
We applied for this project to address the persistent gender gap in STEM education and careers, which limits opportunities for underrepresented groups and reduces diversity in the sector. We identified a need to strengthen both pedagogical approaches and institutional capacities to promote gender equality in STEM learning environments. We aimed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and resources of teachers and educators, develop evidence-based teaching tools, and foster collaboration with international partners to exchange good practices. Additionally, we sought to improve our ability to design and deliver training, use digital platforms effectively, and engage wider communities through structured dissemination. By participating, we addressed these needs while contributing to a shared EU objective of fostering inclusive, equitable, and high-quality STEM education.