Women in science is being spearheaded by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
The university started the STEM MentHER last year, which has established itself as a beacon of empowerment for young women interested in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Since the launch of the UKZN Chapter in 2023, the programme has continued to flourish, providing invaluable mentorship and support to aspiring female students.
The origin of STEM MentHER at UKZN can be traced back to Dr Cerene Rathilal, a lecturer in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science.
Collaborating with the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NiTheCS) and UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, Dr Rathilal, along with her colleagues, Dr Yaseera Ismail and Dr Chevarra Hansraj, launched the UKZN chapter of this national STEM outreach programme at the beginning of 2023.
“STEM MentHER is designed to address gender disparity in STEM fields by offering mentorship and guidance to young female learners aspiring to pursue careers in these domains,” said Dr Rathilal.
“By pairing mentees with experienced female academics and postgraduate students during their final year of high school, the programme aims to empower them by providing career and study guidance and nurturing their academic and professional growth.”
With the release of the 2023 matric results, STEM MentHER hosted a celebratory event to honour the achievements of its inaugural Grade 12 pupil cohort.
At the occasion, Dr Rathilal congratulated the students on their excellent matric results and expressed her gratitude to the mentors whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the programme’s success.
Mentees included Maia Lucie Klijnstra, Zaahira Khan, Akeesha Maharaj and Rejenté Dorasamy.
They shared heartfelt testimonials, acknowledging their mentors’ profound impact on their academic journey so far. These students, who achieved a host of A symbols between them, have all registered for STEM degrees at UKZN, while some of their fellow mentees have opted to pursue their studies at other tertiary institutions.
While some students have chosen to study at other universities, they will continue to be mentored by their chosen UKZN mentors as they embark on their individual study choices.
“Through mentorship, these young women not only excelled academically but also gained confidence and inspiration to pursue their dreams,” said Dr Rathilal. “As STEM MentHER enters its second year at UKZN, a call has gone out for 2024 applicants. We encouraged teachers and principals to nominate deserving Grade 12 female students who exhibit passion and potential in STEM disciplines. Successful candidates will benefit from expert mentorship, tailored programmes and membership of a vibrant community of aspiring female scientists and engineers.”
