Every year on 23 June, the world celebrates International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) – a moment to spotlight the achievements of women in one of the most transformative and traditionally male-dominated fields: engineering. For South Africa, this day is more than a global observance; it’s a call to action to accelerate gender equity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Launched by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) in the UK, INWED has grown into a global movement that highlights the contributions of women engineers and encourages more girls and women to pursue careers in engineering. The 2025 theme, #TogetherWeEngineer, underscores the power of collaboration and inclusivity in shaping a better, more innovative future.
South Africa has made notable strides in promoting gender diversity in engineering. At Stellenbosch University, for example, the percentage of female academic staff in the Faculty of Engineering rose from 26% in 2015 to 35% in 2024. Undergraduate female enrolment increased from 23% to 32%, and postgraduate numbers nearly doubled.
In traditionally male-dominated disciplines like Electrical and Electronic Engineering, the number of female academic staff has nearly doubled, and Chemical Engineering now boasts a female undergraduate majority at 57%. These shifts are not just statistical – they represent a cultural transformation in how engineering is perceived and practiced.
Companies like RS South Africa are actively investing in the next generation of women engineers. Through partnerships with institutions like Nelson Mandela University, they support initiatives such as the Women in Engineering Leadership Association (WELA), which offers mentorship, career readiness workshops, and funding for student projects.
These efforts are crucial in breaking down gender stereotypes and creating a more inclusive engineering landscape. As Dr. Marshall Sheldon of NMU puts it, “By encouraging more women to enter and thrive in engineering, we enrich the industry with unique problem-solving approaches and leadership styles”.
Engineering is about solving real-world problems – designing systems, improving efficiency, and building sustainable solutions. Women bring diverse perspectives, collaborative mindsets, and creative thinking that are essential in tackling complex challenges, from climate change to digital transformation.
Moreover, engineering is a versatile career path. South African women engineers are making their mark in sectors ranging from mining and manufacturing to fintech, healthcare, and green energy. Their work is not only reshaping industries but also inspiring future generations.
While progress is evident, barriers remain. Gender bias, lack of mentorship, and limited access to resources still hinder many women from entering or advancing in engineering. That’s why INWED is not just a celebration – it’s a reminder that the journey toward equity is ongoing.
As South Africa continues to invest in STEM education and innovation, ensuring that women are equally represented and empowered in engineering is not just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic one.
