Apply Now! 2025 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWISA): Celebrating Excellence in Research and Innovation
The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) is excited to announce the 2025 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWISA), a prestigious initiative aimed at recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of women scientists and researchers across the nation.
These awards serve to spotlight the contributions of women in the scientific field and promote them as role models for younger generations, inspiring more women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The 2025 SAWISA awards will honor women who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and excellence in their research and contributions to the advancement of knowledge in various scientific fields. This year’s theme, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” focuses on elevating the role of women in science and showcasing the significant impact that their voices and work have in shaping the future of STEM fields. The awards ceremony will take place on 21 August 2025, marking a key moment in the celebration of women’s achievements in science.
SAWISA Award Categories and Eligibility
The SAWISA 2025 awards are open to South African women who are either citizens or permanent residents and will be awarded in the following categories:
- Distinguished Young Woman Researchers
This category honors young women researchers who have demonstrated exceptional promise and have made substantial contributions to their respective fields. - Distinguished Woman Researchers
This category recognizes women who have established themselves as leaders in their research fields and have made significant, sustained contributions over the course of their careers. - Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)
Women researchers whose work falls within the Humanities and Social Sciences are eligible for this category. This includes areas such as sociology, psychology, history, economics, and political science, among others. - Natural (Life and Physical) and Engineering Sciences
Women researchers working in the life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering fields will be recognized in this category. This includes fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and engineering disciplines.
In addition to the researcher categories, the SAWISA 2025 also invites applications from registered master’s and PhD students through the DSTI Fellowships.
These fellowships are designed to support emerging talent in the scientific community and provide them with the recognition and resources they need to further their academic pursuits.
Application Process and Important Dates
Applications for the 2025 South African Women in Science Awards are now open. Researchers and students are encouraged to submit their nominations and applications by the following deadline:
- Deadline for Nominations and Applications: 10 June 2025
Late submissions will not be accepted, so it is essential that all applicants adhere to the deadline.
The process to apply is straightforward:
- For Researchers: A detailed Nomination Form must be completed. This form includes sections to highlight the nominee’s achievements, contributions to their field, and the impact of their work.
- For Students: A separate Application Form for master’s and PhD students under the DSTI Fellowships will need to be submitted. This application should include academic records, research proposals, and other supporting documents that demonstrate the student’s potential and commitment to advancing science.
All completed forms and supporting documentation should be sent to the official SAWISA email address:
[email protected]
Supporting the Next Generation of Women in Science
The SAWISA 2025 awards are more than just a recognition of outstanding women scientists—they are part of a broader effort to inspire and mentor future generations of women in STEM. With science and innovation playing such an essential role in shaping the future of society, it is critical that women continue to be represented at all levels of research and development.
The theme of this year’s awards, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of women within these often male-dominated fields. Through this initiative, the DSTI aims to increase the visibility of women scientists and create a more inclusive environment where their work is celebrated and supported. By recognizing and supporting women researchers, the awards hope to inspire young girls and women to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and to understand that they too can make significant contributions to these vital areas.
In addition to honoring individual accomplishments, the SAWISA 2025 awards also align with the broader goals of the South African government and global initiatives to promote gender equality in STEM fields.
As a result, the awards provide not only recognition but also empowerment, enabling women researchers and students to further their careers and make lasting impacts within their communities and beyond.
Contact Information and Further Inquiries
For additional information regarding the awards, application process, or to address any questions, the DSTI has provided the following contact details:
- Contact Person: Dr. Maphuti Madiga
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 79 510 9279
Further details about the nomination process and access to forms can be found through the official DSTI website or by reaching out to the contacts listed above.
Call to Action
The 2025 South African Women in Science Awards presents a significant opportunity to honor the remarkable achievements of women in science and to empower future generations to make their mark in the scientific world.
Through recognition, mentorship, and the celebration of excellence, SAWISA is helping to bridge the gender gap in STEM and inspire young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Be a part of this remarkable journey by submitting your application or nomination today! The deadline is 10 June 2025, so don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to shine a light on your work or the work of those you admire in the scientific community.
