CSIR ScienceScope: Women in science

Abstract

The year 2006 is celebrated as the “year of the women” in South Africa to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the women’s march to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. These individuals contributed a great deal to raise awareness of the necessity to uplift and empower women as a fundamental aspect towards strengthening our democracy. As these brave women are honoured, so does CSIR celebrate its women in science, and the contribution these women make to improve the lives of other people in South Africa as well as raising the profile of women in this field. CSIR’s ability to produce well-trained, effective scientist, engineers and technologists will have an important effect on the levels of innovation and creativity that are so necessary in maintaining continued growth in the country. However, the renewal of human resources remains a challenge, particularly where women researchers are concerned