Abstract:
The studywas carried out toinvestigate and examine the problems encountered by girls and young
women in accessing science education and trainingin relation to a proviso in the Constitution of
Zimbabwewhich requires observance of gender balancein all spheres including appointmentsto high positions
whereas the same Constitution requires that such appointments should be done on the basis of merit. This study
was a review which involved collection and analysis of data from various sources including academic literature,
country reports, strategic frameworks, press reports, statistical information, legislative statutes, policies and
other relevant government documentations. The study found that if fewer girls and women pursue science,
technology, engineering and mathematics at high schools, colleges and universities,achieving gender parity
during appointments to higher positions in the world of work remains a paradox in the form of a ‘pie in the sky’
as most women would not qualify. Some high posts will not have female applicants. The study found that girls
and young women were faced with a plethora of problems chief among which are cultural stereotypes where the
science fields are still viewed as male domains and the belief that ‘science and mathematics are difficult
subjects’. The study recommended concerted efforts by government and non-State players to promote women in
science. Training or re-training of teachers and lecturers who handle science and mathematics was
recommended so that they use exciting modern teaching techniques which demystify and simplify concepts to
build confidenceamong girls and young women to pursue science, technology, engineeringand
mathematicscareers. There should be increased use of successful women in science and mathematics as role
models to inspire the girl child froma tender age as in ‘catch them young’
