FEATURED: AFRETEC on steering gender inclusivity in STEM, research field

Harnessing the participation of women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields and research work demands collective effort of going beyond numbers to actionable steps, according to officials. ALSO READ: More efforts needed to close STEM gender gap at tertiary level – officials This was remarked during the opening of a three-day workshop on breaking barriers and fostering equity: women in STEM organized by the African Engineering and Technology Network (AFRETEC), on February 19. It brought together professionals and educators in STEM fields, leaders and decision-makers in academia, industry, and research. AFRETEC is a network comprising technology-focused universities from across the continent to enhance engineering and technology, teaching and learning excellence, knowledge creation, and pathways to opportunities under the vision to drive inclusive digital transformation through higher education and the strength of collaboration. ALSO READ: AFRETEC empowers UR staff with dynamic learning environment skills It operates across six universities including the University of Rwanda (UR), Carnegie Mellon Africa, the University of Lagos, the University of Nairobi, the American University of Cairo, and South Africa’s Wits University. The persistent observation has been that young girls take on STEM courses and perform well at primary and secondary level, but enrollment dramatically drops throughout the levels up to university due to different factors. Some of the reasons include, social stereotypes, family and peer discouragement, lack of female role models in their particular field of interest, and pressure of other responsibilities, among others. “We visualize a future where women are not only welcomed but celebrated in STEM fields—where they have equal opportunities for leadership, recognition, and advancement”, noted Dr. Peace Bamuligire, the Inclusion and Impact Lead at AFRETEC-UR. “We foresee a world where the next generation of girls looks to the stars and sees no limits to what they can achieve, where they are inspired to pursue their passions and make their mark on the world”, she added. Speaking at the event, Dr. Ignace Gatare, Principal of the College of Science and Technology – UR, who spoke on behalf of UR Vice Chancellor, noted that the collective intelligence, creativity, and problem-solving of women are essential for tackling challenges the society faces. “By fostering diversity in STEM will not only ensure equal opportunities for all but also cultivate and nurture groundbreaking ideas and solutions,” he said while highlighting that the workshop will allow them to explore ways to unleash the limitless potential of women in STEM fields. According to him, data indicated that the percentage of female enrollment in the university has increased from 26 percent in 2017 to 33 percent in 2023, however, he emphasized that the need goes beyond numbers to tangible actions of attracting more women and girls in STEM courses. “We should go beyond education to factory and service level. The landscape of STEM is evolving rapidly and we must recognize and celebrate the invaluable role women play in driving innovation, discovery and progress.” Nancy Biwott, Diversity and Inclusion Associate Director, Carnegie Mellon University Africa, said that there has been a mindset shift whereby young people below 30 years feel capable enough to grasp every opportunity and compete fairly while the older ones still have several things to grapple with that hinder their STEM journey. “The shift is there but different depending on culture, countries, and context.” Biwott pointed out that whatever path one chooses, whether science or arts, is valid. “Pursue your interests, fight through the barriers and learn from those that are ahead of you in your career. Whether you are a female or a male, every interest is valid,” she noted. Dr. Jennifer Batamuliza, one of participants, said the workshop is important to inform decision-makers about the different challenges and solutions that can enhance the participation of women in STEM fields. Participation in research grants Due to the few number of women in STEM at tertiary level, the gap is still reflected in research work. “One has to be a researcher and possess grant writing skills. So, you find that most women lack the confidence to apply for research grants, however, such specific programs support women in this area,” Batamuliza said. Besides the women-targeting grant offers available, she also added, the good thing is that most grant application demand that the applicant must involve 30 percent female members of the research team. Biwott highlighted that AFRETEC has launched a call for research grant proposals for a project that will make impact on inclusion.

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