LONDON, UK | August 8, 2025
Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is today hosting the 7th annual Women in Science Symposium, a flagship event dedicated to addressing the persistent underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Held at the University of Pretoria’s Future Africa Campus under the poignant theme, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” the symposium brings together academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to confront the systemic barriers that have long prevented women and girls from entering, and thriving in, these critical disciplines. As South Africa marks Women’s Month, the event serves as both a celebration of the country’s female trailblazers and a stark reminder of the urgent need for concrete, transformative action.
The event is being spearheaded by the South African Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and the University of Pretoria. Delivering the keynote address is Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, who is expected to outline the government’s ambitious strategy for achieving gender parity in the scientific workforce. She will likely highlight the progress that has been made, such as the government’s target to ensure 55% of postgraduate funding is awarded to women, a goal that has been exceeded in recent years. However, her speech is also anticipated to address the long-standing challenges that persist, particularly at the highest levels of academia and industry, where the “leaky pipeline” continues to see talented women leave STEM careers prematurely.
The symposium’s agenda is packed with discussions that seek to move beyond rhetoric and towards actionable solutions. A central focus is on dismantling deep-seated gender biases and stereotypes that often begin in early education. Panels will discuss the importance of gender-sensitive career guidance, the provision of robust mentorship programs, and the creation of inclusive and equitable workplace cultures that support women’s professional advancement. The discussions will be informed by recent research, including a UNESCO report, “Changing the Equation,” which reveals that globally, women constitute only 22% of the STEM workforce in G20 countries—a figure that has barely shifted in a decade. South Africa, while making strides, still grapples with a similar challenge, where Black women, in particular, remain a significant minority in the STEM fields.
A key highlight of the event is the presence of several trailblazing female scientists who are serving as powerful role models for the next generation. Among them is Dr Hafsa Essop, a senior lecturer at the University of Pretoria and the founder of “PregiDose,” a pioneering mobile app designed to facilitate radiation protection and occupational health and safety for pregnant radiographers. Dr Essop’s innovative work not only showcases the practical application of science and technology but also exemplifies how women are creating solutions that address unique challenges within their own communities and professions. Her presence at the symposium underscores the fact that women are not only contributing to science but are also driving innovation in a way that is both impactful and deeply relevant to societal needs. The event will also feature discussions on the contributions of other prominent female researchers and academics, whose groundbreaking work spans fields as diverse as public health, inclusive innovation, and the circular economy.
The international dimension of the symposium is particularly noteworthy. The event is a reflection of a growing global push, supported by organizations like UNESCO and the World Bank, to prioritize women’s participation in STEM, especially in Africa. The UK, through initiatives like the British Council’s African Science Partnerships Programme (ASEP), has a vested interest in strengthening the talent pipeline across the continent. These programs aim to support science graduates and lecturers in translating their research into commercial products and innovative solutions, thereby tackling both gender inequality and high youth unemployment rates. The South African-UK science and technology partnership is a robust one, built on long-standing collaborations and a shared commitment to addressing global challenges, from health to climate change. As such, the outcomes of the symposium in Pretoria will be of great interest to UK policymakers and research institutions, who see a strong and diverse South African STEM sector as a key partner in future research and innovation projects.
The challenges facing women in STEM in South Africa are multifaceted and complex. While the country has made significant progress in educational enrolment and postgraduate funding, with women now outnumbering men in many of these categories, the “leaky pipeline” continues to be a major concern. Women are still underrepresented in senior academic and leadership roles, and a significant percentage leave the field due to a combination of factors, including gender biases, a lack of mentorship, and difficulties in achieving work-life balance. A 2024 report by the UN Women’s office in South Africa highlighted that despite progressive legislative and policy interventions, many historical gender imbalances remain, especially in high-level positions and specialized research.
In this context, the 7th annual Women in Science Symposium is a vital platform for dialogue and accountability. It not only celebrates the achievements of a new generation of female scientists but also forces a frank and honest discussion about the systemic changes that are still required. The theme “Her Voice in Science” is not just a call for inclusion; it is a recognition that the unique perspectives and experiences of women are indispensable for the future of scientific discovery and technological innovation. The symposium in Pretoria is a powerful statement that South Africa is committed to not only closing the gender gap but also ensuring that women are not just participants in the scientific community but are central to shaping its future. The world will be watching to see if the actions that follow the symposium can translate this powerful vision into a tangible and lasting reality.
