
STEM MentHER Empowers Women Students
A dynamic partnership between the Schools of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science and the Health Sciences has given rise to an innovative initiative, STEM MentHER, which was launched last year at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Spearheaded by UKZN alumnus and lecturer at UJ Dr Cerene Rathilal, the programme aims to bridge the gap across diverse academic domains. Its first intake of 16 students are now part of various university programmes.
This year, STEM MentHer expanded to admit 10 additional UJ students, with parallel launches at Stellenbosch University, incorporating nine students, and UKZN, involving 11 students. Rathilal explained that nominations are received from teachers or school principals, followed by a rigorous application phase that delves into the students’ aspirations. This data-driven approach ensures a seamless alignment of students with academic mentors who share their objectives and university environment.
Beyond the enriching one-on-one mentorship interactions, the programme follows a comprehensive framework for holistic growth. Interactive online check-in sessions feature guest speakers who shed light on the path forward, sharing their personal journeys as female role models. Compulsory career assessments, workshops on effective study habits, and access to psychological support services within the universities to further enrich the students’ development.
In honour of Women’s Day, the School of Health Sciences led by the Biokinetics, Exercise, and Leisure Sciences (BELS) discipline, organised a health and wellness workshop. BELS gym supervisor Ms Zamile Nduli hosted a meet-and-greet session, followed by an enlightening input on optimal nutrition and exercise techniques. Nduli noted that, ‘Exercising is a gift to your hardworking body, conditioning it for optimal functionality.’ The session also featured dance aerobics that fostered a sense of community among participants.
Academic Leader of BELS Professor Rowena Naidoo applauded BELS staff and students’ enthusiastic participation in community health and wellness events, university sports days, and related activities. Partnerships with initiatives like the STEM MentHER programme promote co-operation between academic disciplines, mentorship, and wellness advocacy and nurture a generation of confident, empowered female students ready to make their mark in diverse fields.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Supplied