DSTI celebrates 20 years of inspiring South African women in science

On 22 August 2025, the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, launched a publication celebrating "20 Years of inspiring South African Women in Science" and the remarkable women who have shaped the country's science, technology and innovation (STI) landscape.

This comes after the annual South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA) ceremony, which took place in Bloemfontein on 21 August 2025. Since its inception, SAWiSA has become a cornerstone of the Department's efforts to promote gender equity and has recognised more than 200 exceptional women. The publication looks just some of the many award recipients who have gone on to become leaders, mentors and role models in their fields.

SAWiSA has been celebrated annually in Women's Month since 2003, with a few ceremonies missed during the Covid-19 pandemic. It not only rewards excellence, but also raises the profile of women researchers, inspiring young women and girls to pursue careers in science.

This year's theme, "Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science", echoes the theme of the 2025 UNESCO International Day of Women and Girls in Science and underscores the Department's commitment to building an inclusive national system of innovation that reflects South Africa's diversity, talent and values.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister Gina said the publication reflected the richness and diversity of South Africa's scientific community.

"These women have broken barriers, uplifted others through mentorship, and reshaped the image of the contemporary woman in science. Their contributions continue to strengthen South Africa’s knowledge economy and global scientific standing."

Among those featured is Dr Nomakwezi Mzilikazi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Rhodes University. A recipient of the inaugural SAWiSA Doctoral Fellowship in 2003, her journey exemplifies the impact of the awards in nurturing excellence and enabling transformative careers in science and innovation.

Befittingly, Dr Mzilikazi delivered the keynote address at the awards ceremony, urging those in the sector to go beyond participation to ensure women thrive at senior levels of leadership.

"Too often, women cluster in early-career and support roles, while senior leadership in STEM and the highest academic ranks remain stubbornly male-dominated. Participation must translate into power and influence if we are to achieve true transformation," she said.

The 2025 SAWiSA was a vibrant celebration of excellence, inspiration and transformation. The event brought together government leaders, researchers, academics, students and international partners to honour 30 exceptional women at the forefront of science and innovation in South Africa.

The awards rotate across provinces annually to ensure national visibility and celebrate excellence from diverse regions. This year's master's and doctoral fellowships honoured the legacy of the late Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri, the first black, female Premier of the Free State and trailblazer in information and communications technology, education and science policy.

16 young women received DSTI-Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri Fellowships to support their studies in fields ranging from astronomy and cancer therapy to climate psychology and construction management.

Among the recipients was Ms Duduzile Kubheka, a master's student at Rhodes University, who was awarded for her research on public engagement with astronomy across Africa. She was acknowledged for her advocacy of science communication in local languages, which helps bridge the knowledge gap and improves science literacy.

"We need to bring communities into the conversation on astronomy so that they too can contribute, understand and reap the benefits of these investments that we are making in the country," she said. She further explained that her work involves relatable role-modelling through which people can feel represented.

Ms Kubheka said it was humbling to be recognised for her work and that she was more encouraged to further her studies and contribute further towards science and research to uplift communities.

Among the winners in the top categories was Professor Jill Hanass-Hancock, Chief Specialist Scientist at the South African Medical Research Council and Honorary Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Health Sciences.

Prof Hanass-Hancock received the award for Distinguished Woman Researcher in Human and Social Sciences. Her pioneering research focuses on reducing the vulnerability of people with disabilities, particularly women, to HIV and gender-based violence through inclusive policies, interventions and monitoring approaches.

The winner of the award for Distinguished Young Woman Researcher in Public Engagement with Research was Prof. Nombulelo Sepeng, Associate Professor and Programme Manager for Research and Postgraduate Studies in the Department of Nursing Science at the University of Pretoria.

A leader in public engagement, she has advanced adolescent health, violence prevention and trauma-informed care through her research and partnerships. Prof. Sepeng also serves internationally, promoting global research collaboration with local impact.

Issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation

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