Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10321/5757
Title: Strategies for empowering and retaining women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields : a systematic literature review
Authors: Ntombela, Bogolo 
Ramabodu, Molusiwa Stephan 
Moloi, Katleho 
Keywords: Gender equity;STEM education;Engineering and built environment;Institutional transformation
Issue Date: 9-Jan-2025
Publisher: Seybold Publications
Source: Ntombela, B., Ramabodu, M.S. and Moloi, K. 2025. Strategies for empowering and retaining women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields: a systematic literature review. Seybold Report. 20(1): 161-172. doi: 10.5281/zenodo.14619785
Journal: Seybold Report; Vol. 20, Issue 1 
Abstract: 
Despite the increasing integration of women into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
fields, gender disparities persist, particularly in engineering disciplines. Research indicates that women are
significantly underrepresented in engineering roles across various nations, with cultural, institutional, and
educational barriers contributing to these disparities. Efforts to address these issues have included educational
reforms, mentoring programs, and policy changes, yet challenges remain in achieving gender equity and retaining
women within these fields. This study aims to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at
improving gender equity in STEM education and careers. The research seeks to answer how different strategies,
such as peer mentoring and inclusive curriculum designs, impact women's recruitment, retention, and
advancement in engineering. The ultimate goal is to identify practices that can significantly reduce gender gaps
in STEM disciplines. This study employs a systematic literature review to assess the impact of gender equity
initiatives in STEM fields. The review synthesizes existing research findings from multiple global contexts,
evaluating the success and scalability of various interventions. Sources include academic papers, reports on
educational programs, workplace studies, and direct feedback from participants in gender-focused initiatives. This
approach aims to gather comparative insights into effective practices for promoting gender equity in STEM.
Anticipated outcomes of this study include identifying key factors that contribute to successful gender equity
programs in STEM. These may include the critical role of institutional support, the effectiveness of mentoring
networks, and the importance of culturally sensitive curriculum reforms. The study is expected to provide a set of
validated approaches that can be adopted and adapted by educational institutions and corporate entities alike. The
review is anticipated to conclude that a multifaceted approach, combining top-down policy changes with bottom up educational and cultural reforms, is most effective in promoting gender equity in STEM. These strategies are
likely to be more successful when they are integrated into the core mission of institutions rather than implemented
as peripheral programs. Recommendations focus on long-term commitments to these changes and the continuous
assessment of their impact on reducing gender disparities.
URI: https://hdl.handle.net/10321/5757
ISSN: 1533-9211 (Online)
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.14619785
Appears in Collections:Research Publications (Engineering and Built Environment)

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