Dorcas Lekganyane Wins the WISA DST Fellowship Master’s Degree Award

The Department of Science and Technology recently hosted its annual Women in Science Awards (WISA) in Sandton, Johannesburg. Hosted by Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, the awards honored emerging scientists, established scientists and students.

The event was held under the theme, “women’s empowerment in the changing world of work”. Minister Pandor said WISA has become an important feature of our celebration of Women’s month. “It builds on the fanfare and the excitement generated by another significant event in the scientific calendar of our country, namely, the National Science Week (NSW), held in the first week of August. It builds a momentum that grows stronger each year,” said the Minister.

The awards were also attended by Minister of Higher Education, Blade Nzimande, and the Minister of Energy, Mmamoloko Kubayi, also attended the event. Dr Nolulamo Gwagwa, currently CEO of Lereko Investments, a black-owned investment company delivered the keynote address. Dr Gwagwa praised Minister Pandor for making sure the voices of women scientists were heard and their work celebrated.

She said the failure to recognize the important contribution that women can make to the economy would be detrimental. She urged women scientists to continue working hard because they can ‘have it all’ – both professional and personal success.

The winners and runners-up won thousands of rands in prizes.