Legal provisions and the problems encountered by the girl child in pursuing science education and training in Zimbabwe

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’