SGCI Gender and Inclusivity Initiative, Zambia: reflections on the journey

Abstract

Nsama Chilumbu Mataka (left) and Mupande Nambala (right), National Science and Technology Council, Zambia A study by the council prompted some anxiety: While the study, as expected, confirmed the low participation of women in research, it also revealed another negative trend: the predominantly male researchers being funded by the science granting council were older, more seasoned researchers rather than younger, emerging academics. "We felt we might get to a level when older professors or researchers retire, and we do not have anybody to take over," the participants say in this interview. So when the opportunity to participate in the G&I project came along, the council jumped on board and embarked on what has been an "exciting", 'interesting" and "challenging" journey. A G&I sensitisation workshop at the NSTC, including senior management, produced a palpable shift in awareness and appreciation of the work of the G&I change team, members of whom are now being consulted by senior management in the drafting of funding proposals. "That gives you the feeling that we may not yet be there, but I think we are getting somewhere."