International Day of Women and Girls in Science

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a globally recognized Observance aimed at promoting full and equal access to participation in science for women and girls. It seeks to challenge gender stereotypes, increase female representation in all scientific disciplines, and encourage the full and equal involvement of women in scientific education and practice. The Observance also supports the achievement of internationally agreed development goals and inspires all stakeholders in science and technology to actively support gender equality.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish this Observance in 2015, recognising the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. For South Africa, International Day of Women and Girls in Science holds special significance. Historically, women in South Africa have been underrepresented in science and related sectors. However, the government has continually reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality in all sectors, including science and technology. This day serves as a reminder of this pledge, recognising and celebrating the contributions of South African women to scientific and technological advancements, while also highlighting the need for continued efforts to ensure gender equality in these fields.

In South Africa, International Day of Women and Girls in science is observed through a range of activities. These include awareness campaigns, workshops and seminars aimed at promoting the importance of gender equality in science and inspiring young girls to pursue scientific careers. South Africa celebrates this international observance on the 11th of February alongside the rest of the world, highlighting the importance of science and technology as drivers of development, and the crucial role women and girls must play in the scientific and technological advancement of the nation.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 International Day of Women and Girls in Science in South Africa

• The global theme for the 2026 observance is From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap, which prioritizes the transition from theoretical gender equality recommendations to the implementation of measurable solutions within scientific ecosystems.
• This year’s activities will place a significant emphasis on the role of women in new and emerging technologies, specifically focusing on the fields of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and scientific entrepreneurship.
• In South Africa, while women account for approximately 43% of graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, a significant leaky pipeline persists as they represent only 29% of doctoral candidates and 24% of professional academic researchers.
• The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation continues to honor the legacy of South Africa’s first female premier of the Free State through the DSTI-Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri Fellowship, which supports young women pursuing research in fields ranging from astronomy to cancer therapy.
• South African epidemiologist Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim, known for her pioneering HIV prevention research, remains a key figure of interest following her 2025 election as a Fellow of the Royal Society.
• The government recently launched the Women in Technology and Innovation Programme through the Technology Innovation Agency to provide dedicated funding and mentorship to female entrepreneurs facing systemic barriers in the local tech sector.
• To celebrate two decades of progress, the national government released a commemorative publication titled 20 Years of Inspiring South African Women in Science, which profiles the stories and breakthroughs of the country’s leading female researchers.
• Notable local scientists like Professor Jill Hanass-Hancock, the 2025 winner of the South African Women in Science Awards for distinguished woman researcher, are frequently highlighted during this period for their work in disability-inclusive health policies.
• The observance in South Africa is increasingly linked to the African Girls Can Code Initiative, a program designed to equip young schoolgirls with digital literacy and coding skills to ensure they are prepared for high-demand careers in robotics and data science.
• The 2026 events will showcase the impact of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program, which has recognized dozens of South African doctoral and post-doctoral researchers for excellence in fields such as agritech and biotechnology.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Top things to do in South Africa for this observance

• Discover 12 notable women in STEM who have made a lasting impact on history.
• Learn how to get children interested in STEM. Some tips include cooking and baking as the mixing and measuring of values can create an interest in science. Other tips include using more math in everyday life. Discover more tips.
• Watch a film to learn more about Women and Girls in Science:
  Hidden Figures - This movie showcases the critical roles of women of African descent in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program.
  Through the Eye of the Needle - A documentary looking at the life of South African scientist Sibusiso Biyela as she overcomes cultural challenges and adversity to become a renowned science journalist.
• Visit the Cape Town Science Centre: This is a world-class interactive science centre that offers hands-on experiments and interactive displays, promoting science awareness and appreciation among all age groups. On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, they often host special events or exhibitions related to the achievements of women in science.