DANANG, August 5, 2016 -- Good morning and welcome to the Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Conference. USAID is committed to empowering women with a platform to ensure their voices are represented, needs addressed, and leadership potential fostered. In the words of President Barack Obama, “We… know that countries are more likely to prosper when they tap the talents of all their people. And that’s why we’re investing in the health, education, and rights of women, and working to empower the next generation of women entrepreneurs and leaders. Because when mothers and daughters have access to opportunity, that’s when economies grow, that’s when governance improves.”

In that spirit, I am proud to be here today to highlight achievements that encourage, support, and equip young women involved in all aspects of STEM. This is part of our overall commitment to workforce development through the Building University-Industry Learning and Development through Innovation and Technology (BUILD-IT) Alliance.