Women in science and technology

Abstract

The constraints to girls and women in the science and technology field, especially those living in developing countries are discussed. In an effort to overcome these constraints, there are a number of national and international organizations promoting the role of women in science and technology. The work of some of these international organizations is described in this article and I aim to have some articles on the national efforts in this field at a later stage. Brief biographies of some eminent women scientists of the last century are then presented. These women managed to achieve amazing results despite so often struggling against ridicule, intolerance and other forms of sexual discrimination in their lives, particularly in the first half of the 1990s. I hope their achievements and dedication to their work, often against all odds, inspires us all to greater heights of scientific endeavour. I particularly hope that these profiles will encourage our girls and young women to take science subjects during their schooling and to aim for careers in science and technology.


The Zimbabwe Science News Volume 34(2) June 2000, pp. 40-43