Breaking Barriers: Women Scientists Share Stories Of Resilience And Triumph On International Women’s Day

By Elizabeth Angira

Worth Noting:

• During an online session celebrating International Women’s Day, Dr. Margaret Karembu, Director of the International Service for the Acquisition of Biotech Applications (ISAAA) and Chairperson of African Women for Bioscience and the Africa Science Dialogue, highlighted the societal expectation for women to base their decisions on science.
• She expressed gratitude for the efforts of those employing affirmative action to facilitate women’s advancement in science, including bioscience.
• Karembu emphasized the pivotal role of women in utilizing science in their daily activities, particularly in making decisions affecting family nutrition, underscoring the significance of the scientific choices they make.

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, women in the field of science are speaking out against societal barriers that have long discouraged them from pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses, traditionally considered male-dominated.

In academia, a silent revolution is underway as women challenge these outdated stereotypes and claim their rightful place in the scientific community.

In the bustling corridors of academia, a quiet revolution has been underway. Women in the world of science have decided it high time to confront the societal barriers that had long confined them to the sidelines of male-dominated fields. With determination in their hearts and voices raised in unison, they began to challenge the status quo.

During an online session celebrating International Women’s Day, Dr. Margaret Karembu, Director of the International Service for the Acquisition of Biotech Applications (ISAAA) and Chairperson of African Women for Bioscience and the Africa Science Dialogue, highlighted the societal expectation for women to base their decisions on science.

She expressed gratitude for the efforts of those employing affirmative action to facilitate women’s advancement in science, including bioscience.

Dr. Karembu emphasized the pivotal role of women in utilizing science in their daily activities, particularly in making decisions affecting family nutrition, underscoring the significance of the scientific choices they make.

Dr. Sylvia Mutinda, a renowned Researcher Scientists Kenyatta University, says that “Science knows no gender.

“We are all capable of making groundbreaking discoveries, regardless of our background or identity.” She says.

She emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Dr. Mutinda attributes her inspiration to her father, who mentored her from primary school to her Ph.D. level.

Dr. Mutinda asserts that women are groundbreakers and should challenge the stereotypes that portray science as a male-dominated field. She encourages women to step forward and make their mark.

Professor of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Addis Ababa University Dr. Adey Desta, , highlights the significant role women play in food security.

She advocates for increased investment in women scientists to empower them and enhance their influence in agriculture.

Dr. Desta shares her personal journey, recalling the challenges she faced during her master’s program but found inspiration from female scientists ahead of her.

Despite obstacles, she completed her Ph.D. in 2014.

National Commission for Science and Technology in Malawi Catherine Chaweza emphasizes the need to debunk stereotypes that deter women from STEM fields, urging society to support and encourage women’s participation in these disciplines.

She notes that traditional gender roles often limit women’s opportunities outside the household, hindering their potential in STEM.

Dr. Siboniso Moyo, Deputy Director-general of ILRI, stresses the importance of supporting young women in STEM education, acknowledging the additional burdens they carry.

Dr Sylvia says that mentoring programs and encouragement at the secondary school level are vital in nurturing future female scientists.

Chaweza advocates for gender equality in STEM, striving to ensure that women have equal opportunities to excel and contribute to scientific progress.

Desta says that through mentorship and advocacy, they inspire the next generation of female scientists, paving the way for a future where science transcends gender barriers.

Chaweza challenges the media to provide platforms for women scientists to highlight their work, noting that they are often overlooked in favor of their male counterparts. She emphasizes the importance of giving equal space and recognition to women scientists in the media.

Their relentless efforts signify a shift towards a world where anyone, irrespective of gender, can pursue and achieve greatness in science.

According to United Nations  2024 International Women’s Day  global theme is ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress.’ This theme underscores the importance of directing resources, support, and attention towards women to expedite positive advancements in various aspects of society.