Mbabane — The Eswatini National Commission for UNESCO hosted an online session on 24 June 2025 to introduce the l’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Programme. The event brought together regional experts and past awardees to discuss challenges women face in science and how the programme supports early-career women researchers in sub-Saharan Africa.
Itseng Kwelagobe from Botswana’s National Commission for UNESCO outlined the global context, noting women make up just about 30% of the STEM workforce despite contributing significantly to science. He pointed out that achieving gender equality in science is critical for addressing global development goals.
Dr Vuyiswa Mkhabela detailed persistent hurdles such as stereotypes, cultural biases, and unequal access to resources that limit women’s participation in research and development. Globally, women represent only around 29% of scientists, a figure that has stagnated over the past decade. She called for stronger career guidance, equal pay, and mentorship opportunities to improve these numbers.
Dr Charmaine Kahiya, a Mandela Washington Fellow studying pharmaceutical chemistry in South Africa, shared how fellowships like the OWSD (Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World) have been vital in providing mentorship, networking, and financial backing, helping her progress and overcome career obstacles.
Welile Dube-Nwamba introduced the l’Oréal-UNESCO Young Talents Programme, which in 2024 received 788 applications from across 49 sub-Saharan African countries, awarding 30 women through a rigorous peer-review process. Eligible applicants must be PhD or postdoctoral students in their second to final year of study, and the £10,000 award supports expenses like laptops and software but excludes lab equipment and institutional fees.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully prepare their submissions, including a motivational letter sharing their personal journey, and secure two support letters from supervisors or mentors aligned with programme goals. Welile urged applicants to start early and use the application page limits effectively.
Constance Chingwaru, a past recipient, described how the award increased her visibility through media and networking, opened doors to further opportunities, and provided leadership training. She credited the financial support for sustaining her PhD studies and encouraged hesitant applicants to believe in their work and prepare thoroughly.
Lwandle Simelane, Secretary-General of the Eswatini National Commission for UNESCO, explained that the commission offers support to women applying for the award, including helping with applications and connecting them to experts. She assured that lack of language skills or resources would not prevent women from accessing help.
Regional youth and science groups called for expanded outreach to underserved communities, with plans underway to target rural areas such as Matabeleland North in Zimbabwe.
The session concluded with a call for women scientists in Eswatini and the region to seize fellowship opportunities as platforms for advancing careers and contributing to scientific innovation in Africa.
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