CRY walk pushes for girls in STEM

Child Rights and You (CRY) organised its annual “walk” to empower girls – ‘EmpowHER’ in Bengaluru on Sunday, calling for greater opportunities for girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). 

Held at Cubbon Park, the walkathon brought together more than 1,400 participants, including students, professionals, volunteers, and social workers. Children and social workers led the march with placards and slogans, while cultural performances highlighted the theme “Girls in STEM”.

Puja Marwaha, CEO, CRY, said families often discourage girls from pursuing science and maths, pushing them into “safer” careers. “We must shed these stereotypes so that girls can stand equal to boys,” Ms. Marwaha said. 

Other speakers included actress-activist Dr. Tara Anuradha, who stressed making science accessible in local languages, Dr. Basavaraj B. Dhabadi of the State Health Department, who urged supportive workplaces for women, and Latha Nayak, director at Oracle India Private Limited, who warned that AI-driven job shifts make STEM skills critical for girls. 

John Roberts, regional director, CRY-South, pointed out that STEM is freedom from poverty, early marriage, and stereotypes. Participants heard the stories of Pallavi and Lakshmi, two young women who overcame barriers to pursue science education. They called for more STEM labs in rural schools.