Young women encouraged to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics

According to UNESCO, less than 30 percent of the world’s scientific researchers and only 35 percent of students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in higher education are women.

“This is a startling statistic, but it also means there are incredible opportunities for women to enter the STEM fields at this exciting time, where technology continues to transform the way we live,” said Monica Luwes, manager of  the Graduate Centre at Sasol Corporate Bursary Services.

She added that career fields in STEM are regarded as the driving force behind technological transformation and innovation and will be among the highest-paying in the future.

ALSO READ: Applications are now open for Sasol’s bursary programme for 2021

Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, Sasol encourages young women to harness their potential by entering STEM fields thereby contributing to the development of much-needed critical skills in the country and to help grow the economy.

To support this next generation of women leaders and innovators in STEM, Sasol, which regards its role as that of a catalyst for change, is offering and encouraging female learners to apply for its all-inclusive bursary programme that focuses on STEM-related courses at a tertiary level.

“Women are valuable to the world of STEM, and at Sasol we are proud to encourage and enable them to harness this potential giving them the opportunity to kick off and succeed in careers in these fields,” said Luwes. “There is no limit to what they can achieve and if we ignite the STEM spark in our young women, we help generations of women to come.”

Lehlogonolo Letshela, who is studying for a BSc in chemical engineering at the University of Cape Town through the Sasol bursary, was attracted to a career in STEM for the value it would bring to her life long-term, and her community.

“I have always loved maths and science, and fortunately throughout my school life I’ve had teachers encouraging me to pursue these subjects,” says Letshela. “Young women need great mentors, and I’m hoping I can bring value to them and the community around me.”

Another bursary recipient, Zaina Abrahams, who is studying for a BEng in mechanical at the University of Cape Town says that she’s always dreamed big of one day working in the science field, and thanks to Sasol, whose enabled her to pursue her dream.

“Aside from offering just financial support, Sasol really offers a hand-in-hand ‘partnership’ through their bursar support programme,” said Abrahams. “From offering tutors, to making psychologists and specialists available when we need help, this bursary goes way beyond just the numbers, and enables us to harness our full potential.”

The Sasol bursary is open to learners who are planning to study towards a B Eng or BSc Eng in various engineering disciplines or for a BSc in chemistry, geology or metallurgy.

The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks and pocket money. Bursars also receive allowances for study tools such as laptops and calculators, and financial and career assistance as part of the Graduate Development Programme.

To apply:

• Register online at: https://www.sasolbursaries.com/user/register.
• Answer a few questions regarding your field and level of study.
• Log in and fill in an online application.
• Alternatively, you can find more information on how to apply here: https://www.sasolbursaries.com/how-do-i-apply

Applications close April 30.

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