The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has announced the finalists for the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA).
This comes as South Africa commemorates the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 march of 20 000 women to the Union Buildings, who stood up against apartheid pass laws.
“Celebrated annually during Women's Month, SAWiSA recognises and rewards excellence in science, technology and innovation (ST&I) by South African women. The awards also celebrate outstanding researchers and scientists, whose achievements inspire the next generation of women and girls to pursue careers in ST&I,” the DSTI said on Wednesday.
This year's theme: "Placing Women at the Centre of Science, Technology and Innovation", aligns with the department's mantra of "Placing science, technology and innovation at the centre of government, education, industry and society".
The theme underscores the critical role that women play in advancing scientific excellence, driving innovation and contributing to South Africa's socio-economic development.
“The DSTI Fellowships have been renamed in honour of the late Prof. Shirley Keolebogile Motaung, one of South Africa's most distinguished black women scientists and academics.
“The DSTI-Prof. Keolebogile Motaung Fellowships will be awarded to young women pursuing their master's and doctoral degrees in recognition of their academic excellence and research potential,” the department said.
This year, the department is introducing a new look SAWISA to support the strategic commitment to place women at the centre of science, technology and innovation.
It strengthens the visibility of research excellence, reinforces SAWiSA’s role as a transformation instrument, and creates a recognisable platform through which awardees can inspire public participation in science, mentorship and future talent development.
The new look combines scientific symbolism, feminine strength and South African identity, and will be reflected in the logo, trophy and overall branding.
The winners will be announced at a gala dinner on 20 August 2026 at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel.
The 2026 SAWiSA finalists are as follows:
Prof. Agnes Chigona
Prof. Tanusha Raniga
Prof. Nirmala Dorasamy
Prof. Xanthe Hunt
Prof. Faheema Mahomed-Asmail
Prof. Musawenkosi Saurombe
Prof. Marietjie Venter
Prof. Sheena Kumari Pillai
Prof. Nelishia Pillay
Prof. Tricia Naicker
Dr Yaseera Ismail
Prof. Muthumuni Managa
Associate Prof. Lynn Hendrick
Dr Hafsa Essop
Prof. Tebogo Mothiba
Associate Prof. Sabrina Kumschick
DSTI-PROF. Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships
Doctoral Fellowships
Ms Makwena Sebone
Associate Prof. Jane Ndlovu
Ms Nolwandle Khumalo
Ms Nondumiso Nkosi
Ms Vhuhwavho Tshavhungwe
Ms Victoria Hlokoe
Ms Annarien Headley
Master's Fellowships
Ms Kayleigh Mathieson
Ms Mushayathoni Nwovhe
Ms Nasiphi Siguca
Ms Rebaone Mofokeng
Ms Yolanda Mngcongo
Ms Jos Jansen van Vuuren
Ms Ayesha Aswat.
- SAnews.gov.za
