Strengthening gender and inclusivity in science grant-making councils will generate more impactful research

Abstract

Science, technology and innovation drive economic development, solving societal problems in areas such as education, housing and healthcare. Often, these challenges disproportionately affect women. Yet, female researchers are underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The HSRC's Gender and Inclusivity Project is dedicated to advancing gender transformation in research. Worldwide, only about a third of researchers are women. While gender parity has been achieved in life sciences in many countries, only 28% of tertiary graduates in engineering and 40% in computer sciences are women, according to the 2021 Unesco Science Report. In the field of artificial intelligence, only 22% of professionals are women. Ironically, these fields drive the Fourth Industrial Revolution but are also characterised by a skills shortage. The report shows that wide variations exist in the representation of women in research at national and regional levels.