University of Mauritius hosts workshop on Gender-Responsive Leadership in STEM Doctoral Supervision

The Doctoral School of the University of Mauritius (UoM) is organising a three-day workshop on Gender-Responsive Leadership in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Doctoral Supervision, with the support of the Southern African Development Community Women in Science, Engineering and Technology Organisation (SADC WISETO) initiative under the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research.

The initiative aims to promote women’s participation, leadership and retention in STEM fields through mentorship, inclusive leadership practices and stronger institutional engagement.

The opening ceremony was held, this morning, in Réduit, in the presence of the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon. The Vice-Chancellor of the UoM, Professor (Dr) Kavi Kumar Khedo; the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academia) of the UoM, Professor (Dr) Ponnadurai Ramasami; and other students were also present.

In his address, Minister Sukon emphasised that research is a cornerstone of national development and plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the country. He highlighted that the development of new sectors and start-ups depends on strong research capacity. He also underscored the importance of aligning research efforts with national priorities.

On that score, Minister Sukon urged students and researchers to concentrate on developing practical solutions to pressing challenges in areas such as communicable and non-communicable diseases, and sustainable water resources management. He further encouraged scholars not to limit their work to academic publications and to explore ways of transforming their research into patents and innovations that can be adopted by enterprises for national development.

Referring to the National Research and Innovation Institute, the Minister stated that it would be a game changer in advancing scientific discovery, research and innovation; conducting mission-oriented research to address pressing national challenges; coordinating the national research ecosystem; and supporting Mauritius’ transition towards a resilient, competitive and knowledge-based economy.

Speaking about the workshop, Dr Sukon commended the initiative, highlighting that it provides an opportunity for supervisors to exchange ideas, share knowledge and expertise, address common concerns, and strengthen their capacity to better support doctoral students.

For his part, Prof Khedo, underlined the important role of researchers, leaders and supervisors in shaping the journey of STEM students and creating a supportive academic environment. He indicated that the University currently has 265 doctoral students, with a strong gender balance and women slightly outnumbering men. He also noted the significant presence of women in science and engineering disciplines. He described the workshop as an excellent opportunity to reflect on doctoral supervision practices and enhance the quality of guidance provided to students.

10 June 2026

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Topics: Education, Gender, Innovation