WiPiSA @ IAUGA-2024
Contribution 1
Abstract Author: Dr Katekani Shingange
Co- Author: Dr Joyful Mdhluli
Abstract Title: Women in Physics: Inclusion for All
Session title: Working Group 3: Women in Astronomy
Despite notable advancements in recent years, women continue to confront underrepresentation in physics and astronomy, encountering unique barriers that hinder their complete engagement and progression within the field. Women in Physics in South Africa (WiPiSA), a dedicated forum under the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP), is committed to championing the cause of women in these intertwined disciplines and advocating for increased female participation in physics and astronomy-related careers.
Addressing the imperative question of how to attract and retain females in these fields remains a formidable challenge. Proposed initiatives encompass the amplification of diverse voices and shared experiences, highlighting the importance of identifying and celebrating perspectives beyond gender. Additionally, building supportive communities is highlighted as crucial, exploring the key role of community-building in establishing networks that prioritize mentorship, advocacy, and collaborative environments conducive to mutual growth.
WiPiSA engages in various activities aimed at attracting and retaining females in Physics-related careers, including science outreaches, Physics departmental lunches, webinars, mentorship, and role modelling. Through these activities, it can be realized that intersectionality in action calls for exploration of approaches to inclusion that recognize and address the interconnected nature of various identities, ensuring a subtle understanding of the challenges faced by different groups within the physics and astronomy communities. This work aims at sharing the WiPiSA engagements, share the successful stories and challenges faced at attracting and retaining females in Physics.
Contribution 2
Abstract Author: Dr Joyful Mdhluli
Co- Author: Dr Katekani Shingange
Abstract Title: Promoting Gender Diversity in Physics Education: The Case of WiPiSA in South Africa
Session Title: Astronomy for Equity and Inclusion
Despite being a developing nation, South Africa continues to face the challenge of underrepresentation of women and girls in physics education and related careers. This disparity is often attributed to the perception of physics as a male-dominated field and the lack of adequate support structures for female students.
This talk focuses on the efforts of the Women in Physics in South Africa (WiPiSA), a forum under the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP), to address the gender gap in physics education. We will give an overview of the organization’s initiatives, particularly its focus on reaching underprivileged communities, to understand their approach to promoting and attracting women and girls to physics-related careers. The aim is to shed light on the potential of WiPiSA’s work in contributing to a more diverse and inclusive physics landscape in South Africa. By communicating the efforts of WiPiSA, this talk plans to contribute to broader discussions on promoting gender equality in STEM education in developing countries.
More information about the IAUGA2024 here
