STEM is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It was first coined in the early 1990s, but was primarily focused on science and mathematics (White, 2014). In the 21st century, new technologies are designed and emerging every day, and people who can use science, mathematics and engineering to solve new problems will be required. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Today, STEM is quickly becoming an educational initiative due to its integrative approach. Nowadays, every job requires a certain amount of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills. We also have a great article on STEM for students and teachers, check it out. But what if many students in Pakistan graduated without these skills. This isn't just bad for our students; It's bad for our communities that don't have the well-skilled workforce needed to attract today's jobs. Maintaining our scientific and technological leadership is essential to our economy, our national security and our future. It's not just about science and math; it's about being ready for college, career, and life (Mcdanial, 2016). The most serious challenge facing our nation regarding STEM education is the lack of female students in STEM fields. It is critical that all students have access to quality STEM education programs. Female students must be encouraged from an early age to engage in STEM studies. Many talented female students fail to complete their degrees in a STEM field for a variety of reasons. Pakistan is at a crucial point in its development and education has an important role to play in encouraging further development. The education and inclusion of women in educational institutions is particularly important. The situation in developed countries is no different, STEM subjects are disproportionately dominated by male students (Christie et, al. 2017). According to 2014 World Bank data, among all out-of-school children, 57% of these children are girls in Pakistan. Unfortunately, girls face discrimination when it comes to getting an education, and then face further discrimination even when they continue to study. Later in life, fewer women receive PhDs than men, and women are severely underrepresented in STEM careers in Pakistan. There is a whole tangle of reasons why the gender gap exists in STEM. One is a pipeline problem: fewer girls than boys choose to study STEM subjects in secondary school and university. Social and peer pressure, negative stereotypes, lack of encouragement and perceived marginalization of women working in STEM fields are one of the main factors influencing the existence of women in STEM fields. Many theories have also been developed to attempt to explain how these phenomena affect young women and their communities. The first of these is “rational choice” theory, which refers to the rational decision-making process used by children and young people to make decisions during their education. Rational choice attributes these choices to a cost/benefit analysis, balancing long-term utility with short-term failure (Gabay, et.al, 2014). Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The “Gender Socialization Theory”, 1983).