5 Inspiring women leading academia in the Global South
Women play a vital role in academia, contributing diverse perspectives and enriching scholarly discourse. However, in STEM fields, their presence remains disproportionately low. Women’s leadership in STEM is essential for fostering innovation, addressing gender biases, and inspiring future generations. By promoting women’s representation in leadership positions, academia can harness the full spectrum of talent and expertise, leading to more inclusive research environments and breakthrough discoveries.
In the dynamic landscape of academia, the Global South stands as a beacon of intellectual richness, propelled not only by its scholarship but also by the remarkable leadership of women who navigate its complex terrain. In this article, we celebrate five prominent female academic leaders whose contributions have not only shaped their respective fields but have also become beacons of inspiration for generations to come. From breaking barriers in STEM disciplines to championing social justice in the humanities, these trailblazers exemplify the pivotal role women play in advancing knowledge and fostering inclusivity in academic spaces.
Fetien Abay-Abera
Professor Fetien Abay-Abera, appointed as the acting President of Mekelle University by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Science and Education in September 2020, is a pioneering figure in participatory barley breeding. Her work has led to the release of five barley varieties widely adopted by farmers across Ethiopia’s Tigray region and beyond. Recognized with prestigious awards like the IMPRESSA Award and the Ethiopian Women of Excellence, she is a member of ISDC-CGIAR, contributing to global agricultural research strategies.
With a PhD in plant breeding, Abay-Abera possesses over 15 years of experience in enhancing food security and resilience in low- and middle-income countries. Through collaborations with institutions like Kansas State University and partnerships with USAID and the Norwegian government, she strives to empower women, improve seed safety, and reduce post-harvest losses. As a visiting professor at the University of California, Davis, her research focuses on addressing food system challenges amidst climate change and urbanization, aiming to inspire future generations of food scientists and plant breeders.
Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fetien-abay-abera-89629a91/
Nancy Ip
Nancy Ip made history in November 2022 as the first woman to lead a University Grants Committee-supported institution in Hong Kong, assuming the presidency of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Formerly the Vice-President of Research and Development and Director of the State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience at HKUST, she garnered global recognition, including the L’Oréal-UNESCO Awards for Women in Science in 2004.
Elected to prestigious academies like the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the US National Academy of Sciences, Ip’s research focuses on neural development, synaptic plasticity, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Renowned for her groundbreaking work on neurotrophic factors and molecular mechanisms in brain development, she continues to shape the future of neuroscience as a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Neurotechnologies and Brain Science.
Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-ip-818180/?originalSubdomain=hk
Elsie Effah Kauffmann
Elsie Effah Kauffmann, appointed as the first female Dean of the School of Engineering at the University of Ghana in April 2022, embodies excellence in academia and leadership. As the Founding Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, she pioneered advancements in the field and currently serves as President of the Ghana Society of Biomedical Engineers. Beyond academia, she chairs the Ghana Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee for Health Promotion and contributes to Education Sub Saharan Africa (ESSA) as a member of its Board of Trustees.
With expertise in tissue engineering and biomaterials, Effah Kauffmann’s research addresses local challenges, reflecting her commitment to applying biomedical engineering for societal benefit. Recognized for her outstanding teaching, she received the University of Ghana’s Best Teacher Award and continues to champion science education through her role as the Host/Quiz Mistress of the Ghana National Science & Mathematics Quiz TV Programme. Honored as the 2017 Impact Africa Summit Laureate for Education in Ghana, Effah Kauffmann’s multifaceted contributions underscore her dedication to advancing education and engineering in her community.
Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elsie-effah-kaufmann-phd-b1121a42/?originalSubdomain=gh
Madiha Khattab
Madiha Khattab, a trailblazing figure in healthcare and academia. As the first woman dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Cairo University and chair of its Board of University Hospitals, overseeing 5200 beds, she redefines leadership in medicine. Additionally, she holds the distinction of being the first woman director of the New Kasr Alainy Teaching Hospital, with 1200 beds. A distinguished Professor of Internal Medicine, she’s a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, UK, and the Egyptian federation lead of the Royal Colleges of Physicians. Currently, she also serves as the chairman of the pharmaceutical company Afripharma, spearheading initiatives to advance pharmaceutical development in Africa
Beyond her medical practice, Khattab is a prominent health-policy expert, contributing to national councils and parliaments, advocating for universal healthcare. Her pioneering efforts include establishing liver transplantation and co-founding the Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt, showcasing her commitment to medical innovation and public health.
Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madiha-khattab-0ba87239/?originalSubdomain=eg
Rosa Devés
Rosa Devés, appointed rector of the University of Chile until 2026, marks a historic milestone as the institution’s first female leader in its 180-year history. Renowned for her contributions to cell physiology, Devés is equally dedicated to enhancing science education, notably through nationwide inquiry-based programs. Named spokesperson for the Advisory Council for the Reform of Higher Education in 2015, she’s been instrumental in shaping educational policies in Chile.
Within the University of Chile, her tenure as Graduate Director, Pro-rector, and Vice-President of Academic Affairs has prioritized equity and inclusion, striving to create opportunities for underprivileged students and fostering a diverse, enriching learning environment for all. Devés’ multifaceted leadership underscores her commitment to advancing both scientific research and educational accessibility.
Follow her on X: https://twitter.com/rosadeves?lang=en
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