African women in Tech: It’s time to close the gender gap by Oluwaseyi Kehinde-Peters

Africa is undergoing a technological renaissance, with rapid advancements transforming industries and societies across the continent. However, the underrepresentation of women in STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) poses a significant barrier to fully harnessing this potential.

Despite making up half of Africa’s population, women’s participation in STEM fields remains disproportionately low. This gender gap not only restricts opportunities for women but also impedes Africa’s broader economic growth and technological innovation. Tapping into the untapped potential of African women in STEM is not merely a matter of equity—it is a critical driver of sustainable development.

The deep-rooted challenges faced by African women in STEM 

African women face a multitude of challenges on their journey into STEM careers, challenges that are deeply entrenched in cultural, educational, and professional landscapes. Cultural norms and stereotypes often discourage girls from pursuing interests in science and technology, casting these fields as “male domains.”

From an early age, girls are subtly and overtly steered away from STEM through societal messaging that reinforces gender roles. This cultural bias is not just an abstract concept; it manifests in the decisions families make about their daughters’ education, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce and traditional views are more pervasive.

Even when African women overcome these societal barriers and pursue STEM education, they encounter systemic obstacles within educational institutions. Access to quality education remains uneven, with rural areas particularly disadvantaged. Furthermore, once women enter the STEM workforce, they often face a workplace culture rife with systemic gender bias.

This bias manifests in several ways: women in STEM are often paid less than their male counterparts, receive fewer opportunities for career advancement, and are underrepresented in leadership positions. The so-called “glass ceiling” in STEM fields is reinforced by pervasive stereotypes that question women’s abilities and commitment to their careers, particularly when they also shoulder family responsibilities.

Unequal pay is perhaps the most glaring indicator of this bias. Studies have shown that African women in STEM earn significantly less than their male counterparts, even when controlling for experience and education. This disparity is compounded by the limited career advancement opportunities available to women. Women in STEM are often funnelled into lower-level roles with fewer prospects for promotion, perpetuating a cycle of underrepresentation in senior positions. This lack of advancement is not just a personal setback for these women; it deprives organizations of diverse perspectives that are critical for innovation and growth.

Moreover, the issue of workplace isolation cannot be overlooked. Women in STEM often find themselves in male-dominated environments where they may lack access to mentorship, sponsorship, and professional networks that are crucial for career development. The absence of these support systems makes it more difficult for women to navigate the challenges of the STEM workforce and reach their full potential.

Strategies for inclusive education and employment

To effectively bridge the gender gap in STEM, we must adopt a holistic approach that begins with education and extends into the workplace. Early intervention programs are essential; initiatives that introduce girls to STEM subjects from a young age can spark interest and build lasting confidence. Coding camps, science clubs, and hands-on workshops are instrumental in this effort. However, these programs must be complemented by curriculum reforms that create inclusivity within educational institutions.

Integrating gender-sensitive approaches—such as featuring more female role models in STEM curricula and adopting teaching methods that engage both boys and girls—can foster a more equitable learning environment. Additionally, educational institutions must ensure that classrooms are inclusive spaces where all students, regardless of gender, feel encouraged to excel in STEM subjects.

In the corporate sector, companies must take proactive steps to create inclusive environments that attract and retain women in STEM. This includes implementing gender-balanced hiring practices and building workplaces that support women’s growth. One critical area that demands immediate attention is pay parity. Companies should enforce pay-parity initiatives, ensuring that women receive equal pay for equal work, thus addressing one of the most glaring manifestations of systemic gender bias.

Establishing leadership development programs tailored for women can help break down barriers and prepare them for senior roles, while flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies are essential for supporting women as they balance career and family responsibilities. Furthermore, creating strong professional networks and support systems within the workplace can help women navigate male-dominated environments, providing mentorship and advocacy that are crucial for career advancement.

A call to action to boost women in STEM

The future of Africa’s technological and economic development hinges on our ability to fully leverage the potential of all its people, including women. This is not just an issue for women; it is a pressing challenge that affects the entire continent’s progress. Governments must implement policies that promote gender equality in STEM, such as funding scholarships for women, providing incentives for companies that achieve gender parity, and launching national campaigns to change cultural perceptions.

Educational institutions must reform curricula to be more inclusive and supportive of women in STEM. Corporations must commit to creating environments where women can thrive, from the hiring process through to leadership development.

The time for half-measures and incremental change is over. Africa’s women are not just participants in the continent’s future—they are central to leading it. It is imperative that every stakeholder—governments, educational institutions, and the private sector—takes decisive action to ensure that women in STEM are no longer an untapped resource, but a driving force behind Africa’s innovation and growth.

The time to close the gender gap in STEM is now. Let us not miss this opportunity to transform Africa’s future.

Oluwaseyi Kehinde-Peters is the Founder of the Pan African Women Empowerment Network (PAWEN)

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