NGEC CEO Dr Purity Ngina Calls for Greater Investment in Women’s STEM Research and Innovation
National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) CEO Dr Purity Ngina has called for increased investment in women and girls pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), saying mentorship, research opportunities and deliberate support are critical to unlocking their potential.
Speaking during the Women in STEM Africa Summit 2026, Dr Ngina emphasised the importance of exposing girls to successful women in STEM so they can see role models they can aspire to become.
She noted that mentorship should begin early, including at junior school level, and encouraged stronger collaboration between STEM professionals, researchers and teachers to inspire learners and help them understand the opportunities available in science and technology.
Dr Ngina also highlighted research as a critical component of innovation, urging greater investment in women researchers and ensuring that women scientists are adequately represented in national research and scientific programmes.
She said deliberate measures such as quotas and targeted support for women scientists could help address existing gender gaps and enable more women to contribute meaningfully to research, technology and innovation.
Dr Ngina further stressed the importance of generating African research and data, noting that the continent needs to strengthen its contribution to global knowledge
She urged women in STEM to speak confidently about their work, research and innovations, saying Africa cannot achieve meaningful transformation without fully harnessing the talents and ideas of women and girls in science and technology.