Futuras Cientistas Program Empowers 470 Girls in STEM, Secures R$9.5 Million Funding

The 12th edition of the Futuras Cientistas program concluded in Recife, marking a significant milestone in Brazil's efforts to promote gender equality in STEM fields. The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) and the Center for Strategic Technologies of the Northeast (Cetene), engaged 470 girls throughout January in hands-on scientific immersion experiences at laboratories and research centers across the country.

Minister Luciana Santos highlighted the program's impact, stating it brings girls and women closer to science by creating opportunities and fostering female role models. Since the program's inception in 2012, 75% of participants have successfully passed the National High School Exam (Enem), with 80% opting to pursue STEM courses — showcasing a strong trend toward science and technology careers among graduates.

Financial support for the program includes R$4.5 million allocated from the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNDCT) for 2023-2025, benefiting over 1,700 students and teachers. An additional R$5 million has been secured for the following three years to ensure the program's continuity. Giovanna Machado, program coordinator, emphasized its mission to challenge structural misogyny and promote equity and inclusion in science education.

Participant Eloiza Maria Cavalcante expressed her hopes to be the first in her family to attend university, underscoring the transformative power of educational access for girls from public schools. The program also announced the upcoming selection for the Banca de Estudos, aimed at preparing girls for the Enem and providing mentorship for internships, reinforcing its long-term commitment to female empowerment in STEM.