ROME, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- A weeklong initiative aimed at fostering knowledge and enthusiasm for STEM disciplines began in Italy on Tuesday, culminating in celebrations for the 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Feb. 11.

STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, remains a field where female participation is comparatively low. The Italian initiative seeks to broaden engagement among women in these disciplines.

Promoted by the Ministry of University and Research, the STEM Week will feature dozens of workshops, interactive lessons for students, exhibitions, and public talks with scientists and researchers across the country.

Some 30 universities, seven public research institutes, and two scientific museums are partnering in the initiative, along with various local organizations.

"Italy needs highly specialized professionals to tackle the challenges of innovation," Minister Anna Maria Bernini said in a statement.

In 2023, around 25 percent of all university graduates aged 25-34 in Italy held a degree in STEM disciplines, according to the National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT). The share stood at 37 percent among men and 16.8 percent among women, both showing an increase from the previous year. However, ISTAT noted that a "significant gender gap" persists. Enditem

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