Women scientists and innovators from across Zimbabwe gathered in Harare today for the Women in Science, Technology and Innovation (WiSTI) Conference, a platform designed to elevate their role in the country’s rapidly evolving knowledge economy.
The event provides a dedicated space to recognize women’s contributions, foster collaboration, and strengthen their participation in science and innovation.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Simelisizwe Sibanda, who represented Minister Fredrick Shava, highlighted the importance of the conference.
“This conference provides a vital platform to acknowledge and promote the contribution of women in science, technology, and innovation, and to enhance their role in Zimbabwe’s evolving knowledge economy,” he said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Professor Fanuel Tagwira, also praised the organizers for their dedication in making the event a success.
He noted that since its inaugural edition in 2024, the conference has since grown into a meaningful platform for engagement, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among women scientists.
“When the inaugural Women in Science, Technology and Innovation Conference was convened in 2024, it was an important step towards creating a dedicated space for recognizing and advancing women’s contributions in science and innovation. Today, it has matured into a key platform for engagement,” he said.
Professor Tagwira also emphasized that the conference goes beyond National Women’s Month, reflecting a deliberate effort to strengthen the role of women within Zimbabwe’s knowledge and innovation economy.
He also highlighted that the Ministry’s work is guided by the Education 5.0 framework, which expands the mandate of institutions beyond teaching, research, and community service to include innovation and industrialization.
“Our institutions are now focused not only on generating knowledge but on ensuring that research outputs translate into practical solutions, new enterprises, and technologies that contribute to national development,” he explained.
He added that the WiSTI Conference provides valuable opportunities for mentorship, networking, and active participation of women in research and innovation.
The Conference also aligns with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (2026–2030), which aims to accelerate innovation, expand the digital economy, and promote rural industrialization.
