FROM EXCELLENCE TO IMPACT: DR PALESA SEKHENJANE CHAMPIONS WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE

As Walter Sisulu University (WSU) joins the global community in commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the institution proudly shines a spotlight on women who continue to shape the future of science, research and innovation. Leading this year’s campaign is Dr Palesa Sekhejane, Deputy Executive Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, whose career reflects excellence, influence and a deep commitment to transforming the scientific landscape.

The Faculty of Natural Sciences continues to produce graduates in critical fields such as Mathematical Sciences, Computer Sciences and research in Quantum Physics — disciplines that are essential for industrialising economies driven by innovation and aimed at bridging inequality gaps. Dr Sekhejane’s leadership remains rooted in advancing science, innovation and strengthening STEM futures within higher education.

As a Black woman who has risen to senior leadership roles in research, policy and academia, Dr Sekhejane embodies resilience, mentorship and impactful leadership across regional and international platforms.

Her extensive experience includes serving at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) as Director within the Strategic Partnership Unit in the CEO’s office. She later led the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA) as Acting Executive Head during the 2023/24 financial year, spearheading key projects including Food Systems Transformation and Climate Smart Agriculture initiatives in Tanzania and Zambia, nation-building research in South Sudan, and democracy and elections research across the continent.

Her academic and research footprint spans health sciences, biomedical technology, innovation policy and development across Africa. Dr Sekhejane holds a Doctoral degree in Health Sciences specialising in Biophotonics and has received advanced training from the University of Illinois in the United States. She continues to contribute to global science dialogues through roles such as serving on the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) working committee on the Africa-Wide RDI Fund, the European Union science platform through the Department of Science and Innovation, and as an International Science Council Fellow.

Her recent research on digital transformation and artificial intelligence in Sub-Saharan Africa highlights the importance of inclusive technology policies that accelerate gender equity and youth empowerment.

Reflecting on her journey and offering encouragement to aspiring scientists, Dr Sekhejane shares: “I encourage women and girls to always show grit, despite the backgrounds that are likely to determine their futures. Challenge the limitations that reinforce the systems of exclusion. Recognise the systemic barriers that diminish talent and commitment. Do not undermine the power of building work ethics; it builds a culture of success.”

By: Yolanda Palezweni