The University of Pretoria has launched a new “Girls in STEM” programme to give young women hands-on experience and direct mentorship from top industry leaders to spark a lifetime of innovation.
Pretoria, South Africa (06 August 2026) – The future of STEM is bright, and it includes her.
The University of Pretoria (UP) launched its first Girls in STEM programme, joined by Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Nomalungelo Gina, to inspire the next generation of women in STEM.
This week, the University welcomed learners from various schools for a day of exploration and discovery, providing hands-on STEM experiences and opportunities to engage with inspiring women professionals.
The programme is supported by Sci-Enza Science Centre, UNESCO, L’Oreal, National Research Foundation (NRF) and the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SASTA). It aims to encourage more young women to pursue STEM fields by connecting them with role models, innovative technologies and career pathways.
Under the theme, “From vision to impact: Her science, her future – Building South Africa’s STEM leaders”, the event encouraged young women to dream boldly and see themselves as future scientists, engineers, researchers and innovators.
Through motivational talks, interactive exhibitions and hands-on STEM experiences, learners had the opportunity to explore the exciting possibilities that careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics can offer.
Addressing learners at the launch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen encouraged them to embrace their curiosity and pursue their ambitions with confidence.
“Every advancement began because someone asked, ‘What if?’ or ‘Why not?’” he reminded them.
Inspiration and information can transform a young girl’s life. For those with big dreams but limited access to real-world opportunities, events like these open eyes and minds to what is possible, what steps to take, where to apply, and just how far they can go.
Related Stories
They Made It! Young Animal Welfare Volunteers Off to Cape Town
This Dog Saw Humanity at Its Cruellest – Then Came a Little Girl With R15The future of STEM begins with curious minds, bold questions and the courage to explore new possibilities – such initiatives are part of laying that foundation.
Sources: University of Pretoria
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:
Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 
