Govt to Host 2025 Conference Empowering Women in Science and Technology
By Loyd Matare
The fight for gender equality in science, technology, and innovation is set to take center stage at the Women in Science, Technology, and Innovation (WISTI) Conference 2025, as the nation seeks to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields.
The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education in collaboration with Elevate Trust and other partners, has announced that the high-profile event will take place from March 19-21, 2025, at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC).
Under the theme “Accelerate Action: Women Driving Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development,” the conference aims to position women as key drivers of technological advancements, economic transformation, and sustainable solutions in Zimbabwe and beyond.
“This is more than just a conference—it is a movement,” the Ministry said in a statement.
“We are bringing together women from academia, industry, and policymaking to challenge the status quo and unlock new opportunities in STEM.”
For years, women in have struggled to break into male-dominated fields such as engineering, computer science, and research.
The conference will however, highlight the achievements of female scientists and innovators while also addressing systemic barriers that continue to hinder women’s participation in these fields.
According to the Ministry, the WISTI Conference 2025 will feature discussions on inclusivity in STEM education, funding opportunities for women-led innovations, mentorship programs, and strategies to inspire young girls to pursue careers in science and technology.
“The future belongs to those who innovate, and women must be at the forefront of that future,” the Ministry added.
The push for increased female participation in STEM aligns with global efforts, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 5, which focus on ensuring quality education and gender equality.
The Ministry has reiterated that advancing women’s role in STEM is not just about empowerment but about driving national progress.
With a growing demand for skilled professionals in emerging industries such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy, the Ministry is calling on women to seize the moment, take leadership roles, and disrupt industries with groundbreaking innovations.
The WISTI Conference 2025 is expected to attract leading scientists, policymakers, business leaders, and aspiring young women in STEM, setting the stage for a bold new era where women are no longer sidelined but take charge in shaping Zimbabwe’s technological future.
