As a medical scientist, a professor, a mother of three, and the Deputy Dean of Research and Postgraduate Studies at Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, I stand at the intersection of scientific excellence, leadership, and the daily realities of motherhood.

As we mark this International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on 8 March, I reflect on the progress we have made in advancing women in academia and research, as well as the continued need for institutional support to ensure that women—especially mothers—can thrive in these demanding spaces.

The University of Pretoria is a globally recognised research-intensive institution, committed to fostering scientific excellence and innovation. Within this environment, the Faculty of Health Sciences has played a pivotal role in advancing women into leadership positions, particularly in the research space.

Through mentorship programmes, strategic funding initiatives government partnerships such as the National Cancer Research Strategy project in partnership with DSTI, and guidelines designed to promote inclusivity, the Faculty has cultivated a culture where women are not just participants in science but leaders shaping its future. The faculty has a high number of women staff PhD holders of NRF-rated women.

Over the years, the Faculty has seen an increase in female-led research projects. In addition to this, more women are occupying key decision-making roles, and we’re seeing a growing number of ground-breaking contributions by women in areas such as One Health and indigenous knowledge systems -through the Ubuntu Community Model in Nursing. One Health is an approach that promotes the concept that animal, environment, and human health are intrinsically linked. Most commonly, the term Ubuntu has come to mean "humanity." It is often translated as "I am because we are," or "humanity towards others," or in Xhosa, "umntu ngumntu ngabantu" or "the belief of a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity. In the context of our research, Ubuntu is both capacity building and ability of individuals to navigate their way to sustaining the well-being of others. These achievements are a testament to the impact of targeted efforts toward gender equity. However, while we celebrate these milestones, we must also recognise that the journey is far from over.

The dual burden: academia and motherhood

As a mother of three—two daughters and a son—I understand the unique challenges faced by women who navigate both academic careers and family responsibilities. The scientific community often demands long hours, international collaboration, and relentless pursuit of innovation. All of this while mothers are expected to juggle childcare, school activities, and the emotional labour of raising a family.

Despite advancements, many women still face career stagnation or are forced to make difficult choices between their professional aspirations and family life. Institutional structures need to evolve to better support working mothers in academia, ensuring that career breaks for maternity leave do not translate into professional setbacks.

The need for more institutional support

The Faculty of Health Sciences has made commendable progress in advancing gender equity, yet a crucial gap remains in addressing the unique challenges faced by academic mothers. To create a truly inclusive environment, targeted policies are needed to support their professional growth and well-being. Key initiatives should include flexible work arrangements, high-quality on-campus childcare facilities, and structured reintegration programs for women returning to research after maternity leave. Given the current leadership’s commitment to person-centeredness, we hope these critical areas will be prioritized and integrated into UP’s 2030 strategic agenda, ensuring a more supportive and equitable academic landscape.

Moreover, mentorship programmes and support groups that connect aspiring female researchers with senior women in academia can provide the guidance and advocacy needed to navigate these challenges. Financial support, in the form of research grants tailored to accommodate parental responsibilities, can also play a crucial role in ensuring that talented women do not fall behind due to motherhood.

Building an inclusive future

On this International Women’s Day, we honour the trailblazing women who have paved the way and those who continue to break new ground. We celebrate the resilience of women in academia and recognise the power of representation in inspiring future generations. But beyond celebration, we must commit to action. We must challenge biases, dismantle barriers, and advocate for structural changes that enable women, particularly mothers, to excel in science and leadership.

To all women in academia: your contributions are invaluable, your voices are essential, and your leadership is transformative. Let us continue to lead, inspire, and build a legacy of excellence in science and research—one that recognises and supports the multi-faceted roles that women play in shaping the world.