Gender and STEM Higher Education in sub-Saharan Africa

Research on women in STEM fields has primarily focused on North America
and Europe, overlooking the experiences of women in Sub-Saharan Africa. This
mixed-methods study helps address this gap by examining the challenges faced by
women postgraduate students in STEM fields at African institutions and how they
navigate these challenges to succeed. Quantitative data were collected through
an online survey in 2020 with 163 women who had completed STEM PhDs at 40
African universities. Qualitative data were gathered through seven focus group
discussions in 2019/2020 with female STEM postgraduate students (MSc and PhD)
at four African universities. The findings reveal that African women in STEM
face common challenges such as financial stress, lack of role models, gender
stereotypes, societal pressure, work-life balance issues, and sexual
harassment. Passion for their field, determination to persist, a realistic
outlook, and family support are key factors contributing to success in a
challenging learning environment. The study highlights best practices in Africa
that support women in STEM and offers insights for advancing women in higher
education globally.

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