As president of the Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools, a role I am honored to hold, I have the privilege of being involved in one of the most significant educational initiatives currently taking place in Israel: the Metaktekot (Girls in STEM) program. Led by Israel Sci-Tech Schools, the program is designed to empower young female students in science and technology.
Targeting both middle and high school students, it aims to build self-confidence, promote resilience, and encourage girls to pursue advanced studies in STEM fields.
The program has already reached over 900 female students across 20 schools and has partnered with leading tech companies such as Microsoft, SodaStream, Monday.com, KLA, MALAM TEAM, and MSD.
A large and diverse educational network
Participants widely praised the experience, especially the resilience-building workshops and the hands-on exposure to the tech industry. With a network of over 250 schools serving more than 100,000 students annually, Israel Sci-Tech Schools is the largest educational network in Israel and among the most diverse. It includes Bedouin, Haredi (ultra-Orthodox), Arab, and Druze students, as well as physically impaired individuals and new immigrants from around the world.
Science and technology education in Israel offers a powerful tool for social mobility, enabling students to break free from limiting circumstances. Haredi girls, who might never have considered entering scientific fields, are now studying computer design and architecture. Arab students from various communities are collaborating with Jewish peers and winning national robotics competitions.
New immigrants are integrating through innovative projects in medical tech and 3D modeling. Bedouin students are overcoming geographic and cultural isolation by learning electrical systems, while students with physical disabilities are exploring digital arts and design technologies.
As a woman who grew up in New York City during the 1950s and 1960s, I can personally reflect on how far we’ve come. Back then, girls were rarely encouraged to explore science. I hardly ever saw a girl in a chemistry or physics class, and no one ever told us we could pursue these subjects. There were no female role models in STEM and no science clubs for girls. Looking back, I see how much talent and potential was lost simply because no one opened the door for us.
A cycle of support and leadership
Today, programs like Metaktekot are changing that reality. Through mentorship, exposure to inspiring female role models, and real-world experiences at high-tech companies, girls are gaining the confidence and skills needed to pursue academic and professional careers in STEM. High school students not only benefit themselves – they also mentor younger girls, fostering a cycle of support and leadership across age groups.
Globally, it is well known that empowering girls in science and technology is key to advancing gender equity, unlocking innovation, and building stronger societies. The gender gap in STEM starts early – often due to lack of encouragement and representation. Programs that nurture confidence, leadership, and belonging help close that gap and ensure that the next generation of scientists and technologists reflects the diversity of our world.
In Israel, a country built on innovation and technological excellence, it is especially critical to ensure that women are fully included in the tech sector. Empowering young Israeli girls to pursue science and technology not only promotes equal opportunity but also strengthens the country’s long-term economic and social resilience. This is particularly important for underrepresented communities, for whom STEM education can open the door to high-impact careers.
Even in times of crisis, the contributions of women in science, technology, and defense have been undeniable. During the ongoing war following the October 7 Hamas massacre, female leadership has played a critical role. In one notable case, a senior female director in the Mossad not only led the operation but was also among those who planned it from the very beginning.
Known as the “pager operation,” it was one of the most sophisticated technological military operations ever carried out by a modern army. This coordinated response to Hezbollah attacks significantly reshaped the strategic landscape of the Middle East. Women are not just participating in Israel’s security and innovation sectors – they are leading them.
Through investment in programs like Metaktekot, we are not only empowering individuals – we are helping shape a future where science and technology reflect the full breadth of Israeli society. These young women will become the scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders of tomorrow. And this time, they’ll know from the very beginning: they belong.
The writer is president of the Friends of the Israel Sci-Tech Schools. She was CEO of Hadassah from 2012 to 2021 and previously served as executive director of the American Association of University Women. Throughout her career, she has led numerous volunteer initiatives focused on women’s equity.