Gone are the days when young women were steered exclusively into pink-collar careers such as nursing or teaching. Still, girls aren't as readily encouraged into the field of mathematics as their male peers. If ORT Israel has its way, a new program will work to balance the inequity, encouraging girls to study higher levels of mathematics and physics and take matriculation examinations in those areas, which can lead to careers in the fields of engineering and physical sciences.

How? Studies have shown that girls are usually more receptive to personal attention; therefore, one-on-one tutoring programs and reinforcement lessons in small groups will send a strong message of encouragement. Moreover, the program aims to promote a culture of teamwork among math and physics teachers to boost the achievements of female students in junior and senior high school studying these subjects. It will involve a peer-tutoring program integrating ICT (Information & Communication Technology) in both teaching and learning, instilling in young women a "can-do" attitude toward a field many feel is off-limits.

Contributions to this project will allow ORT to:

• Coordinate tutorials; and
• Provide tutor training at four training-camp days