Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
THE Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development is hosting schoolgirls from across Harare as part of Women’s Month commemorations, in a move aimed at inspiring more young women to pursue careers in transport, aviation and other STEM-related fields.
Running under the theme, “Women in Transport: Driving the Future — Inspiring the Next Generation in STEM and Transport Careers,” the event has brought together learners and key transport sector institutions to expose girls to a wide range of career opportunities.
The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engineer Joy Makumbe, said in an interview the initiative reflects growing Government efforts to promote women’s participation in sectors traditionally dominated by men.
“What I always tell women is that there has never been a time like now for women to shine because our Government is actively promoting women,” she said.
Eng Makumbe noted that policies and recruitment processes are now deliberately designed to encourage female participation.
“Even when we advertise positions, we clearly state that women are encouraged to apply. Gone are the days when certain careers were reserved for men. Opportunities are now open to everyone — what matters is whether one has the capacity to deliver”.
Eng Makumbe said various ministries are increasingly undertaking career guidance programmes to expose students to available opportunities.
“There are now dedicated career guidance initiatives where ministries showcase different professions so that students understand what is available. When we were growing up, many of us did not have that exposure. Today, learners should be empowered to make informed career choices.”
Eng Makumbe emphasised the importance of early career awareness, urging girls to understand the academic pathways required to pursue their ambitions.
“They need to know the careers that exist and the subjects required to follow those paths so that they can achieve their dreams,” she said.
As part of the event, parastatals under the ministry — including the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe, Airports Company of Zimbabwe, National Railways of Zimbabwe, Air Zimbabwe, Zinara and National Aviation Services — engage directly with the students, outlining career opportunities within their respective organisations.
Eng Makumbe highlighted that sectors such as civil aviation still have low female representation, largely due to limited awareness.
