High school learners will gain hands-on experience in coding, AI and robotics at the Dream Women in STEM Technovation Summit in Johannesburg.
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Despite progress, women remain under-represented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, with less than 13% of South African women pursuing studies in these disciplines compared to 28% of men, according to the Global Gender Gap Report 2021.
A new initiative, the Dream Women in STEM Technovation Summit, co-created by the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) and Dream Big Stay Humble, aims to change that by empowering 100 high school girls each year with hands-on exposure to engineering, science and technology. The summit will run from October 3 - 5, 2025, at the American Corner Maponya Hub in Johannesburg.
“Girls and women who had exposure to the STEM industry through family members or teachers are more likely to pursue a career path in this sector,” said Khaye Nkabinde, founder and CEO of Dream Big Stay Humble. “Global studies reveal that gaps in science knowledge start opening at a young age with more girls increasingly choosing not to study science subjects.”
The three-day programme will feature workshops on coding, artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, as well as mentorship from leading organisations including Gautrain, SAASTA and the Engineering Council of South Africa. Participants will take part in a Technovation Challenge, pitching innovative solutions to real-world community problems linked to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
“Attending the summit is a journey that opens your mind, builds your skills and proves that even small ideas can make a big difference,” said Majayo, a Grade 11 learner from KwaZulu-Natal who took part in a previous summit.
For many girls, the event is a turning point. “My favourite part was seeing our ideas come to life and realising that creativity and purpose can go hand in hand,” said Owam Dima, a Grade 10 learner from Zamaki High School. “We truly have the power to lead change.”
SAICE CEO Sekadi Phayane-Shakhane said the programme is vital for building a diverse pipeline of future innovators. “The future of our industry depends on a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline. Young girls must know they have a place in shaping the world through infrastructure, technology and design.”
The initiative is part of SAICE’s broader STAR (Success Through Academic Readiness) programme, designed to close gaps in STEM education, nurture talent and prepare young people for the future workforce.
“At SAICE, we are committed to fostering an environment where girls feel supported in their journey through STEM,” added Phayane-Shakhane. “Our vision is to expand these summits across South Africa and eventually globally.”