The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s participation and leadership in research and innovation, with the launch of the WRIGHT initiative at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT).
Speaking at the launch, the Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina welcomed the establishment of WRIGHT at a university of technology, highlighting the role these institutions play in connecting research to industry, professional practice and communities.
“I am pleased that WRIGHT is being launched at a university of technology. Universities of technology connect research to industry, to professional practice and to communities. They move knowledge from the laboratory, the workshop and the field into processes, products and services. Women must be able to take part at every point of that journey,” Gina said.
The initiative comes as MUT strengthens its research capacity through a R2 million investment in research initiatives focusing on first-time researchers, alongside plans to develop a multidisciplinary research journal, a research conference and the “MUT in Research” programme.
The Deputy Minister said WRIGHT could help ensure that women are supported to build sustainable research careers and assume leadership positions within the university and the broader research system.
The Deputy Minister highlighted progress in women’s participation in South Africa’s research workforce, while cautioning that representation alone does not guarantee equal opportunities for advancement and leadership.
According to the 2023/24 National Survey of Research and Experimental Development, women account for 47.7% of South Africa’s research workforce, 52% of the academic workforce and 62.6% of university enrolments. Women also account for approximately 45% of scientific publication authorship.
Globally, women constitute between 31% and 33% of researchers, a proportion that has changed little over the past decade.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the need to strengthen the journey from research to commercialisation, noting that South Africa’s performance in patenting and commercialisation remains below desired levels.
The 1996 White Paper on Science and Technology committed South Africa to equity through redress, including the eradication of gender disparities, while the 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation reaffirmed the importance of inclusivity and transformation.
Gina said women's perspectives and leadership contribute to research that is more relevant, inclusive and responsive to society's needs, particularly as emerging technologies continue to shape economies and communities.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the work of Professor Naidoo, who has trained more than 100 students, 89% of them women, and whose research on tuberculosis and HIV has helped shape policies and treatment strategies internationally.
“These women show what the system can produce when capable people are given support and opportunity,” she said.
The Deputy Minister also urged the WRIGHT Steering Committee to build partnerships, listen to women at different stages of their careers and share lessons with the wider research system.
“When a girl in a rural classroom looks at a woman in science, she should be able to say: this life is possible for me too,” she said.
The Deputy Minister congratulated Mangosuthu University of Technology on the initiative, expressing confidence that WRIGHT could contribute to building a more inclusive and representative research environment. – SAnews.gov.za
