STEM is one of the accelerated pathways that pay well. A typical definition of STEM can be that it stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. However, it is much more than just groups of subjects. It is a teaching philosophy that integrates all four disciplines into a single, cross-disciplinary program that offers instruction in real-world (as opposed to purely academic) applications and teaching methods. It is heavier on Math and Science since these two are often needed to pursue any career in the engineering or technological fields (in college or the university). However, since Math and Science are viewed as “difficult” and “masculine”, girls are usually discouraged by parents and teachers who underestimate their Math and Science abilities at an early stage. This leads to girls losing passion towards ST; hence we have male-dominated cultures at workplaces and few STEM female role models since fewer women are willing to study and work in any STEM-related field. According to The African Academy of Sciences, this leads to loss of potential which contributes to the country’s setbacks. This shows by the negative impacts on economic development.
Globally, men outnumber women as students, educators, researchers, and workers in STEM fields, yet women in STEM have an important role to play in South Africa’s development, including pushing the envelope on gender equality, one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goal. Therefore, there is no doubt that women in STEM are important and have the potential to contribute to South Africa's development and transformation.
In southern Africa, 60-90% of women engage in agricultural production activities and carry the primary responsibilities such as providing water, energy, sanitation, and health care needs for their family and communities. Yet, fewer women participate in STEM education, meaning women have limited access to jobs in these fields, which are among the highest paying. This furthers the pay disparities between men and women even more.
According to a 2018 report of the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS), women in STEM represent less than 30% of researchers globally. Additionally, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development reports that 1 in 3 engineering graduates and less than 1 in 5 computer science graduates are young females. At the age of 15, only 4.7% of girls are reported to have an interest in engineering or computing careers. This is an extremely low percentage compared to the percentage of boys (18%) who are interested in these careers. (2018).
Women who choose to pursue a career path in STEM require determination, dedication, and above all bravery. Many challenges come with pursuing a STEM career as a female. These challenges include proving that you are worth pursuing that career, showing that you are capable and that you can make it.
We must advocate for the presence of women in STEM to close the gender gap. Women in STEM are unique and we see this by their critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and leadership skills. Having more women in STEM will result in more innovators with diverse backgrounds, and therefore better solutions to global challenges.
Although they are fairly represented in some related STEM disciplines such as agriculture, health, and environmental management, they are under-represented in other fields such as transportation, information technology, energy, engineering, and computing. We need to see more women role models in STEM careers, leading research and big projects.
Women and girls around the world should be supported and awarded greater opportunities in STEM. They can further their studies in these fields but if they are not allowed to use their knowledge, skills, and talents; then the idea of developing our communities and growing the economy becomes less feasible. Research suggests that women quit their STEM Careers to focus on their families. Companies need to create policies and a working environment that encourages work-life balance. Moreover, achieving sustainable goals that are focused on gender equality and empowering all women and girls is a collective effort and therefore requires companies, influential leaders, learning institutions, the media, and the civil society to work together in encouraging women to thrive in these fields.
Awareness around STEM-related fields is essential, more especially at primary schools and high schools. This will ensure that by the time learners apply to institutions of higher learning, they have the necessary information about qualifications under STEM. Women excelling in STEM careers must step up and share their stories. It is then that young girls will have role models and learn from their journey. Mentorship programs can also provide great support for women/girls who aspire to be in STEM-related fields. The world will benefit from innovators and leaders from diversified backgrounds and different genders. Let us all do our part, and we will build a better tomorrow for the future STEM female leaders.
Authors: Lesego Modubu, Charity Chichichi and Fortunate Mzimba [Members of Rising Females in STEM]
