Gender parity in African science

Africa has seen a notable increase in young women's participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields over the past two decades. In 2019, the continent boasted the greatest share of female STEM students globally-47% across 49 universities-according to a report from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Sadly, much of this talent is underutilized. Traditional gender expectations and domestic roles pose substantial obstacles, restricting African women from accessing STEM career opportunities. In sub-Saharan Africa, for example, only 31% of professional researchers are women. Without closing the gender gap in African science, progress on widespread problems such as maternal and child health, and food security, is unlikely.