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.