L'Oréal-UNESCO For Girls in Science
To shape the future, science needs diverse talents more than ever, starting with girls.
In 2026, the Fondation L'Oréal and UNESCO are strengthening their commitment to more inclusive science by challenging stereotypes from an early age and unleashing potential through the international For Girls In Science program.
Our mission: sparking vocations, inspiring innovation
The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Girls In Science program stems from a strong conviction: science needs all talents. As part of a unique intergenerational approach, it builds on over 25 years of action advancing of women in science. While the "For Women in Science" program supports established and emerging female scientists, "For Girls In Science" complements this effort by tackling the root causes of inequality: breaking down stereotypes from an early age.
Our ambition is to empower every girl to explore, question, dream, and innovate. To achieve this, we are committed to :
- Sparking scientific vocations
- Unlocking potential
- Inspiring through emblematic female role models
- Raising broad awareness
Inequalities take root early
Despite equal abilities, persistent social stereotypes and a lack of female role models steer young girls away from scientific careers. From as early as age 6, studies show an association between "genius" and men rather than women (1). By adolescence, even among high-achieving girls, fewer than one in three envision a career in science or engineering (2). This underrepresentation directly impacts future innovation.
It is therefore imperative to intervene early and inclusively, engaging families and teachers, within and beyond school environments, in both rural and urban areas, and across all social backgrounds. The goal is full inclusion ensuring that science benefits from a diversity of talents.
Sources : (1) UNESCO: Report "Cracking the code: Girls' and women's education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)". (2) OECD: PISA 2022 survey results and report "The Gender Equation: Why girls don't see themselves in STEM".
A global ambition: reaching 5 million young people, teachers and school communities by 2030
Building on the longstanding partnership between UNESCO and the Fondation L’Oréal, the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Girls In Science program is expanding internationally to spark curiosity and nurture talent, aiming to reach 5 million young people teachers and school communities by 2030.
This ambition will be achieved through a progressive global rollout, implemented through the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) as well as other educational and scientific partners, with an international launch planned for September 2026.
By igniting curiosity, breaking down stereotypes and fostering talent, the For Girls In Science program paves the way for a future where women and girls are fully empowered actors in scientific innovation.
