The Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA) recently released their 2022 August Newsletter which pays tribute to women who have made notable contributions to the field of Agricultural Economics. The newsletter features a recently published paper, "How women saved agricultural economics" by Susan Offutt and Jill McCluskey, who found that women have played a key role in ensuring the survival and relevance of agricultural economics. The latest AEASA newsletter profiles some of the remarkable women in the field, including Dr Selma Karuaihe, senior lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development, and President of African Association of Environmental and Resource Economists (AFAERE).

Dr Selma is a development economist focusing on environmental and resource economics as a specialization. Her role includes teaching, research, student supervision, fundraising and collaboration, mentorship and coordination of research projects.

Years of experience: Over 20 years

Area of specialisation

• Environmental and Resource Economics
• Environmental, natural resources, energy
• Macroeconomics
• Sustainable development, governance and institutional issues, water economics and access to resources

What do you enjoy about your job/role?

Teaching and collaboration
Nurturing young economists and students
 
What is your notable career achievement?

Being elected as the President of African Association of Environmental and Resource Economists AFAERE 
 
What is most important piece of advice would you give to a woman who is thinking of starting a career as an Agri Economist?

First have the passion in what you do and drive your dream by exploring all possible opportunities.
Do not give up and focus on what others say, but rather focus on what you want to achieve and work hard.
 
If I were a song,
Title: Driven to succeed
Genre: African Jazz

You can read the full August 2022 AEASA Newsletter here.