South Africa’s Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation is calling for stronger and more coordinated action to ensure women and girls can enter, advance and take leadership roles in science, technology and innovation.
As the country marks National Women’s Month, the committee has recognised the growing contribution of women to research, innovation and technological development while highlighting persistent barriers that continue to limit their participation.
Committee Chairperson Lusizo Makhubela said South Africa cannot build a competitive and inclusive innovation economy if girls and young women continue to face obstacles in STEM fields. She stressed that women must not only be encouraged to enter science, technology, engineering and mathematics but also supported throughout their careers.
Recent figures show progress in women’s participation. Women represented 48% of South Africa’s research workforce in 2024/25, up from 45.1% in 2019/20. Women also accounted for 52% of permanent academic staff at public universities in 2022.
However, significant gaps remain at senior levels. Women accounted for 37.5% of permanent professors, including associate professors, in 2020. Men also continue to dominate disciplines such as engineering, computer and information sciences, mathematics and statistics.
The committee said measuring transformation should therefore go beyond the number of women entering the science and technology system. Attention must also be given to retention, career progression, access to research resources, leadership opportunities and the ability of women to turn research and innovation into economic and social value.
The committee identified several barriers affecting women and girls, including gender stereotypes, limited access to STEM opportunities, financial constraints, a lack of mentors and role models, unequal access to digital resources and the challenges of balancing scientific careers with family and care responsibilities.
It called for stronger support from schools, universities, research institutions, government and industry to create a clear pathway for girls from STEM education through postgraduate studies, research careers, professional employment and senior leadership.
The committee also highlighted the need to ensure that women from rural and disadvantaged communities are not left behind. Improved access to quality education, connectivity, research infrastructure, funding and mentorship will be important to expanding opportunities.
As emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, space science, advanced manufacturing and quantum technologies continue to grow, the committee warned that gender inequalities must not be replicated in these areas.
It also called for stronger coordination between government departments, educational institutions, research organisations and industry, alongside improved monitoring of programmes designed to increase women’s participation in science and technology.
The committee said Women’s Month should provide more than an opportunity for recognition. It should also encourage meaningful action to close remaining gender gaps and ensure women and girls have equal opportunities to participate, excel and lead in South Africa’s science, technology and innovation system.
