August is a very significant month for celebrating Women in South Africa. The day, 09 August, is observed as National Women’s Day, which commemorates the historic march of over 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956 to protest against the apartheid government’s “pass laws.”
Subsequently the National Science Week (NSW2025) in South Africa was observed from the 04th – 09th of August 2025. South Africa’s National Science Week is an annual, countrywide celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). It is an initiative of the Department of Science and Innovation and aims to raise public awareness of the value of science and its role in daily life. This made August a truly remarkable month in South Africa, as it brings together two major National observances.
In alignment with the National Women’s commemoration and National Science Week, the Women in Information Technology (WIIT) initiative sought to make a tangible contribution. Driven by its three core objectives—to Grow, Develop and Mentor—WIIT continues to drive its mission forward, striving to achieve its goals and make a meaningful impact.
To achieve this WIIT participated and contributed to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Career Day that was held on the 05th – 06th of August 2025 at the CSIR’s Pretoria campus. The CSIR Career Day aims for grade 9-11 Learners to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Innovation (STEMI). It also featured engaging interactions with researchers and scientists, STEMI-focused exhibitions and demonstrations of projects from various CSIR clusters. The WIIT Members contributed to this informative event by providing valuable guidance on bursary opportunities and the information needed for selecting their postgraduate studies. This initiative aimed to empower the next generation of Female Leaders in Technology and Innovation.
Interestingly, during discussions on topics such as Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR) etc. a clear gap emerged in the Learners’ understanding of these Technologies and the necessity of Digital Skills in the current Global landscape. However, while this highlighted the significant work ahead to bridge the knowledge gap, it is also noteworthy to share that it was equally inspiring to witness the Learners’ eagerness, enthusiasm and genuine engagement in preparing for their future careers. This insight powerfully reinforces that Career days are more than a mere formality; they are a vital catalyst for equipping Learners with the foundational knowledge and inspiration needed to make informed decisions about their academic and career paths.
The collaboration between WIIT and CSIR embodies the philosophy: “Lift as you rise.” It is our collective responsibility to empower the next generation of Leaders.
By making valuable information accessible, we provide learners with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their career paths and confidently build their own futures. This effort ensures we are not just succeeding ourselves, but actively contributing to a stronger and more innovative society for all.
Written by Kholofelo Halefose