Frederick University actively promotes education for the Sustainable Development Goals through dedicated educational outreach activities targeting the wider community, including children, young people and their families.

Through its long-running campaign, "To all women & girls: Join the journey in Engineering, Science and Technology", the University provides free educational opportunities that encourage girls to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), challenge gender stereotypes and promote equal opportunities in education and future careers, this actively contributing to the goal of gender equality and the elimination of gender stereotypes.

An example of this commitment is STEM Day for Girls, a biannual educational event organised at Frederick University. On 29 March 2025, more than 60 girls aged 9–12 from the local community participated in interactive workshops in Robotics, Pharmaceutical Science, Architecture and Civil Engineering, where women are traditionally underrepresented. The workshops, designed and delivered by the University's academic and research staff and Robotics Academy, introduced participants to scientific and technological concepts through hands-on learning activities. The 2025 edition focused on nature and the environment, highlighting the relationship between science, engineering, water resources and environmental sustainability.

In addition to the educational workshops, participants attended an empowerment workshop designed to strengthen their confidence and self-esteem. Parents were also invited to participate in dedicated sessions providing practical guidance on supporting children's development and encouraging them to pursue their interests without gender stereotypes.

The University's outreach activities extend beyond STEM Day through its annual STEM Camp for Girls, a week-long programme organised every July for girls aged 13–16. The camp provides opportunities for experiential learning, experimentation, creativity and problem-solving, alongside visits to relevant organisations and interactions with female professionals who serve as role models in STEM fields.

Both initiatives aim to increase the participation of girls and women in STEM fields and raise public awareness to challenge stereotypes and societal barriers that continue to limit their study and career choices.

Ms Natassa Frederickou, President of Frederick University Council, said: “We are particularly pleased to see girls and their parents responding in large numbers and with enthusiasm to our initiatives, such as STEM Day for Girls. This fills us with optimism and inspires us to continue our action in this crucial field. The underrepresentation of women in STEM fields is a significant issue with far-reaching implications. To address this disparity and achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5 related to gender equality, it is crucial to develop and execute specific and deliberate interventions that target and encourage women to participate in STEM at all levels. The STEM Days, which are regularly organized at Frederick University, are integral parts of our educational initiatives designed to foster an early interest in STEM among girls in the wider community.”

The campaign is held under the auspices of the Commissioner for Gender Equality, Ms. Josie Christodoulou.

For more information about Frederick University's campaign: https://www.frederick.ac.cy/women-in-STEM/