The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Transformation Unit hosted the “Invest in Women: Inspire Inclusion and Accelerate Progress” event on Thursday, March 7, 2024, in recognition of International Women’s Day. This year’s theme underscores the ongoing need to accelerate the inclusion of women across all sectors.
The event featured prominent figures discussing the current state of women in academia and the corporate world. Professor Thandi Lewin from the Ali Mazrui Centre for Higher Education Studies addressed gender equity in education, acknowledging the positive strides made through legislation.
“South Africa has achieved gender parity in terms of numbers,” Prof. Lewin stated. “However, policies alone are not enough. We need to address the cultural aspects within higher education institutions to achieve true equity.”
She highlighted the ongoing impact of gendered ideologies and cultures despite existing policies for women in leadership roles. Prof. Lewin emphasised the importance of maintaining gender equity as a policy focus at all levels, alongside intersectional approaches.
Empowering women academics throughout their careers
Prof. Lewin stressed the need for early-career support for female academics. This includes addressing issues like sexual harassment, gendered power dynamics, and the reduction of gender-based harm. “A safe work and study environment is essential for equality,” she concluded.
Dr. Sadi Seyama, Senior Lecturer in Education Leadership and Management, served as the event’s MC. She urged women to embrace self-awareness, ethical leadership, and utilise opportunities offered by their institutions. Dr. Seyama emphasised authenticity and respect for human dignity as crucial aspects of fair leadership.
Allies in action: addressing economic empowerment
Professor Zakhele Mkhize, CEO of Entsika Group and adjunct professor at Unisa, spoke as an advocate for women. He highlighted the challenges women face despite having higher education levels, including higher unemployment rates and economic inactivity due to societal expectations.
Prof. Mkhize presented statistics and addressed the issue of women often studying fields associated with “support functions,” compared to men. He pledged his foundation’s commitment to accelerating the progress of women and men from rural areas through access to employment and economic opportunities.
The event featured a range of speakers, including Dr. Naadhira Seedat, who shared her experiences as a young woman of colour in STEM, and Authenticity Coach Thato Belang, who encouraged cultivating courageous conversations to foster inclusion through women’s leadership.
UJ Transformation Unit announces mentorship program
At the event, the UJ Transformation Unit announced a new mentorship program designed to empower women and enable them to make a significant impact on society.
