Afretec Gender in STEM Forum 2025
- Wits University
The Forum, organised by the Afretec Inclusion group, was held in Rwanda in February, bringing together STEM academics from eight member institutions.
Wits University was represented by Dr Nokulunga Ndlovu, Professor Rupal Jivan, Professor Eunice Nyamupangedengu, Fatima Makda and Lawan Abdulhamid.
The forum aimed to develop actionable plans to enhance gender parity in STEM academia.
The session on Institutional Policies and Best Practices entailed a discussion on case studies that support gender parity in STEM leadership. Various approaches were highlighted, including institutional initiatives, national and international sponsorships, and grassroots efforts within universities. Programs such as school outreach initiatives (e.g., MentHer at Wits) have significantly increased the number of girls pursuing STEM subjects, leading to more female faculty members in STEM disciplines.
A session titled Senior Academics: In Pursuit of Progress and Excellence explored career progression, research funding applications, networking, and publishing. Esteemed guests who have made significant contributions in their careers, Dr. Edwick Murungu and Prof. Ciku Mathenge shared insights on balancing professional and personal responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of networking as a key enabler for success in STEM.
Dr. Olayinka Adewunmi (UNILAG) conducted an interactive session on working smart amidst multiple responsibilities. She guided attendees through an exercise using AI tools on WhatsApp using prompts to create course outlines, develop activities, and suggest relevant resources. This session provided practical techniques for faculty members to streamline their work and enhance productivity.
Institutions were given the opportunity to propose actionable steps for supporting women’s career progression in STEM. Additionally, institutions were paired to explore potential collaborations for gender-focused STEM initiatives, fostering partnerships for long-term impact.
The forum coincided with the 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science, under the theme “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science.” The president of RAWISE shared her inspiring journey, emphasizing resilience and preparation for STEM careers. Young academics also narrated their career paths, illustrating various trajectories, including vertical progression in academia and career shifts based on emerging opportunities and interests.
Participants discussed the impact of cultural barriers and stereotypes on women’s STEM participation. Role models shared their personal experiences of overcoming these challenges, inspiring young attendees. A student representative urged her peers to be open to different STEM fields and not be discouraged by setbacks in particular subjects.
A special discussion addressed concerns about accessibility for disabled students in STEM. Representatives assured attendees that universities have provisions to support students with disabilities in achieving their academic and career aspirations, reinforcing the message that no barrier should hinder their pursuit of STEM
The forum concluded with an exhibition of student projects addressing community and societal challenges. Attendees provided feedback and suggestions for improving and scaling up these projects. This final event showcased the innovative potential of young girls in STEM and reinforced the importance of mentorship and resource support.
The Gender in STEM Forum 2025 successfully provided a platform for sharing knowledge, inspiring young women, and fostering institutional commitments toward gender equity in STEM education and leadership.