Results of the Online Survey “Women in STEM/IT: Needs and Opportunities”
An online survey titled “Women in STEM/IT: Needs and Opportunities” was conducted at the Faculty of Geography and Environmental Sciences with the aim of identifying key needs, barriers, and expectations of girls and women in the field of STEM/IT.
The survey involved 50 respondents, including undergraduate students, master’s and doctoral students, as well as young researchers. External participants interested in the development of STEM/IT fields were also invited to take part. The study was conducted online using digital platforms (Google Forms) and was anonymous, ensuring openness and representativeness of responses.
The main objective of the survey was to establish an analytical basis for improving educational, research, and career development programs of the university, as well as for advancing institutional initiatives supporting women in STEM/IT. The results are used in an aggregated form in analytical and reporting materials, including within the framework of THE Impact Rankings.
The questionnaire covered participants’ educational background, interest in STEM/IT as an educational and career pathway, existing barriers, demand for support mechanisms, and awareness of university programs. The findings revealed both a high level of motivation to pursue STEM/IT pathways and the presence of systemic constraints affecting women’s academic and professional advancement.
An analysis of the participant structure indicates the involvement of representatives from all levels of higher education, highlighting the continuous nature of support needs for women at different stages of their educational and research trajectories—from undergraduate studies to early-stage academic careers. Key barriers identified include a lack of information on educational, internship, and career opportunities, absence of mentors and role models, insufficient practical skills, complexity of academic programs, the influence of gender stereotypes, and financial constraints.
At the same time, respondents demonstrated a high willingness to engage in support initiatives and emphasized the strong relevance of STEM/IT fields, particularly in the context of innovation, climate solutions, and digital transformation.
The conducted survey represents an important step toward developing a systemic approach to supporting women in STEM/IT at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and provides an analytical foundation for launching new educational, research, and career-oriented initiatives.
