Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) proudly joins the global community in commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS), observed annually on 11 February.
This year’s celebrations, hosted by Africa University in partnership with RUFORUM and the Mastercard Foundation, carry profound significance for both academic advancement and national development. The event seeks to bridge mentorship gaps, foster entrepreneurial science, and challenge persistent stereotypes that hinder the full participation of women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
MSUAS’ presence at the commemorations reinforces the University’s vision of cultivating an academic environment where women and girls are not merely participants in science, but leaders, innovators, and pioneers driving the scientific transformation of Zimbabwe and the African continent.
Running under the theme, “From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap,” the event calls for deliberate action that moves beyond dialogue to tangible outcomes. It underscores the need for institutions of higher learning to create enabling ecosystems that empower young women to thrive in scientific disciplines.
As a university grounded in the applied sciences mandate, MSUAS recognises that inclusive scientific development is critical to achieving national aspirations under Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2. Ensuring gender equity in STEM is not only a matter of fairness, but a strategic imperative for innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.
Our participation is therefore not ceremonial, it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to building a scientific community that is inclusive, equitable, and fully representative of the talent within our society.