What percentage of women are enrolled in computer science, physics, and mathematics programs in Quebec? respectively 19%, 23% and 41%, according to a statistical report issued by the Women’s Chair in Science and Engineering. The rates the University of Montreal College of Arts and Sciences would like to see increase over the next few years. And the Ubisoft faculty has found the perfect partner to make this happen.
Thinking about ways to achieve greater parity in scientific fields began in 2014 by Professors Julie Hlavasque-Larondo and Jean-François Arguin as well as Myriam Vines-Neuschild, all from the Department of Physics at UdeM. This promising and innovative project was originally called physical equivalence, then included other scientific fields to be renamed science equivalence. It was officially launched in February 2021.
“Its purpose: to stimulate female students’ interest in science in college and increase college enrollment and retention rates,” explains Stephanie Luna, program coordinator. To do this, the commitment of stakeholders from the college community is a requirement indispensable condition. From the start, the response of the faculty was extremely enthusiastic. Next step: high school.
This is where Ubisoft comes in. The world leader in its sector of activity, which employs more than 5,000 people in Quebec, will work with Parité Sciences to develop educational strategies and motivational activities. It will be for the young students, video game designers, computer scientists, mathematicians and physicists of tomorrow.
“Ubisoft Education’s mission is to introduce young people to science and technology, especially girls. Our partnership with Parité sciences will help us achieve this common goal, and will encourage university teacher participation, which will be essential in this program,” said Leslie Quinton, Vice President of Communications at Ubisoft.
On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the College of Arts and Sciences is proud to support this important initiative and collaborate with a leader like Ubisoft. Stephanie Luna adds: “The future of Science Barrett is promising.” Today, by creating a welcoming environment for women in scientific fields that are still traditionally male, the entire Quebec community will be enriched and will emerge a winner.”
