Ezimtoti Reporter
Times we are living in today are challenging.
But talking to female pupils about how to choose careers could be the key to a better life.
On Friday, 3 October, Desiree Letshwiti, chief education specialist for Electrical and Mechanical Technology at the national office of the basic education, spoke to the media about the careers women need to do, and these are careers which were previously dominated by men.
She said girl children can’t succeed if they’re not guided properly.
The Dream Women in STEM Technovation Summit 2025 was attended by girls from different high schools around Gauteng.
The summit which was organised by Dream Big, Stay Humble in association with SAICE STAR and other partners took place at Maponya Mall in Soweto from 3-5 October.
Desiree said career guidance are needed to help guide female pupils so they see a vision in life.
“When you walk around the township you see plenty of male mechanics, plumbers, electricians and more. It’s only women who are missing out in these careers,” she said.
Desiree said women are seen around selling fruits and vegetables and that must come to an end.
She said if they pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects but not find jobs in the country they can start their own businesses and create more jobs for South Africans.
Takalani Netshipalo, event organiser, said the aim of the summit was to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators through mentorship, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and engagement with role models shaping the future of engineering and STEM in South Africa.
Ezimtoti News spoke to a few pupils namely Ofentse Lopane (15) from Edward Photudi in Atteridgeville, Rorisang Bambo (16), a grade 11 pupil at Curtis Nkomo high school in Soweto, as well as a 14-year-old Mahlatse Maila from Thathulwazi High School in Kagiso. Mahlatse is in grade 9 and all of them are promising to work hard in order to achieve their dreams.
These are the pupils who are doing extremely well in both Maths and Science and English in their respective schools.
