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This week marking the International Day of the Girl Child, we celebrate not just the dreams of girls worldwide but the women who are making those dreams a reality. Today, we highlight an inspiring journey of The Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) scholar, Dr Jeanne Pauline Munganyika whose groundbreaking research is paving the way for future generations of girls to succeed in fields once dominated by men. Her work is paving the way for young girls in Rwanda and beyond to imagine new possibilities for their future. Rsif is the flagship programme of the Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Technology (PASET), managed by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) as the Regional Coordination Unit.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your journey into research? What inspired you to pursue a career in material engineering?

A: My journey into research began with a deep curiosity about materials and their extraction processes. By visiting mining sites in Rwanda, I witnessed the challenges faced by artisanal miners — the way they work hard but the product is not enough. I was also surprised that the sector had wide gender gap. All these ignited my passion for pursuing this career and developing environmentally friendly methods for mineral extraction as well as valorizing the mining tailings to add value to the minerals we have.

I am a PhD holder and researcher in Materials Science and Engineering with a specialization in Mineral Processing. My goal is to modernize the gold mining industry across Africa, making it more sustainable and beneficial for local communities. I am also doing research on the gold mine tailings valorization to be used as a secondary source of gold.

Attaining my PhD has been a lifelong dream, and the Rsif scholarship has been pivotal in turning that dream into reality. The knowledge and skills I’ve gained have empowered me to make meaningful contributions to my field.

Q: Were there any challenges you faced along the way in STEM? How did you overcome them?

A: The journey has not been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted my research productivity. I faced the dual challenge of balancing motherhood with my academic responsibilities. The closure of laboratories and childcare facilities disrupted my research and writing processes. During shipment of samples from Rwanda to the US, my samples were lost in transit, and because of the pandemic, it wasn’t easy to find them, and this affected my research work. My determination to contribute to sustainable development kept me motivated.

 Q: Can you briefly explain your current research and what inspired you to choose this field?

A: My research focuses on developing environmentally friendly methods for gold extraction, aimed at improving artisanal mining practices as well as using gold mine tailings as a secondary resource of gold in Rwanda and in Sub-Saharan Africa. I was inspired by the need to reduce pollution, waste, and enhance resource recovery in a sector that often operates under difficult conditions. By recommending modern, sustainable techniques for gold recovery, I aim to help miners benefit more from their hard work and improve their livelihoods.

Q: How do you see your research contributing to solving real-world problems, particularly in Africa or other developing regions?

A: I see my research contributing to real-world solutions by addressing significant issues related to artisanal mining, where miners often work in unhealthy environments with outdated methods. Where the use of poor processing methods leads to the loss of gold in the tailings. By developing new, sustainable techniques, I hope to empower local communities economically and environmentally, driving sustainable development in my country, Rwanda.

Q: What role has Rsif played in your achievement?

A: Rsif has been crucial in my academic journey, providing the financial support and resources needed to pursue my PhD. It enabled me to study at African University of Science and Technology in Abuja and participate in a sandwich programme at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) Worcester, Massachusetts, US, gaining valuable international experience and access to advanced research facilities. This support has been instrumental in helping me stay focused on my goals despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Linking Research to the Empowerment of Girls

Q: In what ways do you think your research could impact or empower girls and women, either directly or indirectly?

A: My research serves as a powerful example of women leading in STEM fields. By showcasing successful innovations in mining, I aim to inspire girls to pursue education and careers in science and technology. Additionally, my work emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices, demonstrating that science can improve lives and contribute to community development, especially in mining sectors dominated by men.

Q: Do you believe your work can help inspire more young girls to pursue education and careers in STEM? If so, how?

A: I believe my work can inspire more young girls to pursue education and careers in STEM. I used to do this by sharing my journey and research outcomes through workshops, community outreach, and mentorship programmes, I hope to motivate young girls to consider STEM careers, showing them that dedication and innovation can pave the way for success.

Inspiration and Mentorship:

Q: As a successful scholar, what advice would you give to young girls who dream of pursuing higher education and careers in sciences?

A: My advice to young girls dreaming of pursuing higher education and careers in sciences is to believe in their abilities and surround themselves with supportive mentors. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay curious, and remain committed to your passions. Remember that persistence is key, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.

Q: Do you have a female mentor who has influenced your career path? How important do you think role models are for young girls?

A: I have been fortunate to have mentors who guided me through my academic journey, my supervisor Prof Grace Ofori-Sarpong. She was my role model and quietly provided inspiration and practical guidance. When I follow her work, I feel motivated.

Celebrating International Day of the Girl Child

Q: What does the International Day of the Girl Child mean to you, and how do you connect it to your work or personal journey?

A: The International Day of the Girl Child is a vital reminder of the importance of empowering girls and advocating for their rights. It resonates deeply with my mission to inspire and uplift women in STEM. This day emphasizes the need for equitable education and opportunities, reinforcing my commitment to advocating for girls’ access to science and technology education.

Q: How do you envision your research contributing to a better future for the next generation of girls?

A: I envision my research fostering an environment where girls feel empowered to pursue careers in STEM. By demonstrating the relevance of science in solving real-world problems, I hope to create pathways that encourage future generations of girls to thrive in these fields, ultimately leading to a more equitable and innovative society.

Future Aspirations

Q: What are your future goals for your research, and how do you hope it will continue to create change or drive impact?

A: My future goals include expanding my research on sustainable mining practices and collaborating with local communities to implement the technologies I develop. I also aspire to create educational programmes that empower women in mining and science, ensuring they have access to training and resources.

Q: How would you like to see more women and girls supported in STEM or academic research in the future?

A: I would like to see increased initiatives focused on mentorship, scholarships, and training specifically for women and girls in STEM. Establishing networks that connect aspiring female scientists with established professionals can foster a supportive environment that encourages their growth and success in academia and research. Together, we can build a future where women in Africa are equally represented in science and technology, making significant contributions to the continent’s development.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, and research related issues, balancing my responsibilities as a mother and a researcher, I remain committed to my goals. I believe my hard work and perseverance will ultimately lead to successful outcomes, allowing me to contribute to the development of Rwanda and inspire future generations of women in STEM.