By Thandiwe Matsenjwa
MBABANE – The Eswatini Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP) has reported a significant increase in the number of females venturing into Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, which are traditionally male-dominated fields.
This revelation was made by the Senior Communications Officer of RSTP, Senzo Malaza, yesterday (Tuesday July 16, 2024), during the announcement of the upcoming Eswatini STEM Expo scheduled to take place at the RSTP headquarters in Nokwane.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has also underscored the increasing demand for skilled female professionals in STEM fields, urging countries, particularly African nations, to generate more job opportunities in this sector.
Speaking on the importance of fostering diversity in STEM, Malaza highlighted the key role played by initiatives such as the STEM Expo in encouraging young girls to pursue careers in these areas.
“While doing the STEM Expo programs, we have noticed that if created opportunities for young girls for them to be skilled and venture into those subjects. We also consider schools too like the Advanced school of Information Technology (IT),” he remarked.
He emphasised the impact of creating opportunities for skill development among young girls, noting a notable rise in the number of female applicants being accepted into STEM programs compared to previous years.
In line with this global call to action, RSTP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other organizations, is set to launch the 4th edition of the STEM Expo in August 2024.
Malaza further reiterated RSTP’s commitment, along with the Ministry of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Ministry of Education, to ensuring that women are provided with equal opportunities to excel in STEM fields and acquire the necessary qualifications.
This dedication is exemplified through partnerships with organizations like Women in Engineering, which actively promote and support women in STEM. With a focus on empowering young girls and breaking gender barriers in STEM, Malaza highlighted that this initiative is poised to shape a brighter and more equitable future for the Eswatini’s technological landscape.
