WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE ACTIVATION – PRESS RELEASE

WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE ACTIVATION

PRESS RELEASE FOR EMARGO: 23 FEBRUARY 2023

International Day of Women and Girls in science began as a resolution by the United Nations in 2015. The mission was to address the gender gap in STEM fields by celebrating the contributions and achievements of women in science.

This year, Riverside CID in partnership with the Riverside CID Social Investment Foundation and Agricultural Research Council-Tropical and Subtropical Crops (ARC) recognised the day by inviting a group of young female learners that are part of local NPO Sesi Lomkhulu to explore the phenomenon of agricultural science. The activation aimed to focus on encouraging girls to have a positive mindset towards the subject as well as to make science more accessible and relatable.

On arrival, the girls were treated to a tour of the facilities, followed by the opportunity to participate in various practical activities that highlighted the function science plays in the agricultural sector.

Dr Elliosha Hajar, Acting Research Team Manager for Plant Breeding expressed her delight in the opportunity she had to showcase science “I believe that by empowering the girl child, we are empowering the next generation of world changers, and I am so pleased to be able to be part of a day in which we celebrate the progression of women and girls in this field.” she said.

Gary Phillips, Riverside CSI Programme Manger added that the Foundation is an advocate for investing in the youth because they are agents of change and indicated that the CSI Foundation plans to focus project funding on upskilling and training. “The Foundation is committed to facilitating catalysing, sustainable and impacting community welfare and development initiatives. Activations like today is just part of the innovative projects we plan to roll-out.”

The day concluded with an inspiring chat to happy, inquiring minds. “We hope that this will inspire other corporates to get involved with the Riverside CID Social Investment Foundation in order to be able to give many more learners this hands-on experience” said Jessica Prim, Marketing Coordinator for the Riverside CID.

For more information, contact Gary Phillips, Programme Manager
+ 27 13 757 0415
office@riversidecsifoundation.co.za