Mapúa University is breaking down barriers and becoming a haven for aspiring female engineers and tech leaders. Known for its vibrancy and diverse student body, the university boasts a strong presence of women, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs.
What makes Mapúa a top choice for women in STEM? The answer lies in the university’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and fostering their potential in these traditionally male-dominated fields.
Dr. Jennifer Dela Cruz, a professor at the School of Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Engineering, highlights the university’s two-pronged approach: role models and dedicated resources. “We have a significant number of female engineering faculty members who serve as inspirations to our students. We complement this with scholarships exclusive to female students, ensuring they have access to the same resources, support, and top-notch engineering education as their male counterparts,” Dr. Dela Cruz explains.
This “set by example” approach provides female students with an insider’s view of their future careers. They gain valuable insights into the real-world impact of engineering and technology, motivating them to pursue their own initiatives. Mapúa further equips its female students with specialized training and lectures like “Gender and Society” to address the challenges they might face in these fields.
Beyond its inclusive environment, Mapúa’s legacy of excellence in engineering and technology is a major draw for aspiring tech and engineering professionals. The university holds the distinction of having the most ABET-accredited programs in the Philippines, signifying its commitment to meeting the highest international standards in engineering, computing, and other STEM fields.
Mapúa’s interdisciplinary curriculum and supportive environment provide the ideal foundation for female achievers. Through challenging programs, students can explore and refine their skills in an open and encouraging atmosphere.
“Mapúa’s engineering and technology programs stand out because of their interdisciplinary approach, combining diverse viewpoints and real-world applications. We also offer extensive support services like career coaching, counseling, and tutoring. Our nurturing faculty, networking events, and industry partnerships empower female students and make them feel like valued members of the community and industry,” says Professor Cristina Pascua of the School of Information Technology.
Professor Pascua emphasizes that Mapúa’s programs foster an environment that attracts a diverse student body, particularly females, by actively encouraging their success and perseverance. This is evident in the achievements of some of Mapúa’s brightest female tech talents.
In 2023, a team of Information Systems students — Arianna Coleen Ochua, Ma. Gracia Kim Brela, and Prisilla Amiel Sarto — won the Tech4Women Singapore Challenge with their mobile app “SafeSteps.” This secure platform promotes access to sexual healthcare services for marginalized communities.
Another exemplary project is the “Wearable Obstacle Detection System and Braille Cell Phone for the Blind,” developed by Computer Engineering students Janiena Roxanne Dirain, Kristine Emy Matabang, and Girly Perando. This innovation earned recognition in the Top 10 of the 8th Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP) Innovations and Excellence Awards, making a significant impact on the lives of the visually impaired.
Mapúa University stands out as a premier institution for engineering, technology, and STEM education. Its programs are continually updated to align with the latest industry trends and practices, ensuring graduates remain relevant and highly sought-after in their chosen fields.
Professor Pascua concludes with a powerful message for aspiring and existing female engineers and tech experts: “Stay updated with the latest trends and continuously develop your skills. Bring your unique perspective to problem-solving, be assertive and confident. Don’t hesitate to take charge of projects and pursue leadership roles that showcase your capabilities.” She also offers encouragement to mid-career professionals facing challenges: “Remember, Babae ka, hindi babae lang (You are a woman, not just a woman). You have the power to inspire positive change. Your knowledge and expertise are invaluable assets that will shape the future of engineering and technology.”