This study examines the intersection of gender equity and inclusion in education through a Systematic Literature Review of academic articles and conference proceedings focused on women’s leadership in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The studies were collected in three languages. Portuguese, as the official language of the country where the study was developed; Spanish, because it covers countries in Latin America; and English, because it is the predominant language in global scientific literature. The review identified studies made it possible to define twenty categories of challenges, nine categories of opportunities associated with women’s leadership in STEM, and sixteen categories of strategies to support their development within the field. Findings highlight the critical need for cultural and structural reforms, alongside the implementation of targeted policies within academic institutions, to foster equitable opportunities, enhance recognition, and promote women into leadership positions in higher education. These insights emphasize the importance of sustained efforts to advance gender equity and inclusivity in STEM academic leadership.
Authors:
Leihge Roselle Rondon Pereira, Cristiano Maciel & Indira Rita Guzman
Language:
English 
References (APA):
Rondon Pereira, L. R., Maciel, C., & Guzman, I. R. (2025). Women’s academic leadership in STEM: a systematic literature review on challenges, opportunities and strategies. Studies in Higher Education, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2025.2511825