CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF DEMOCRACY: WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT IN THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION

By Matlaba Machete

• As we commemorate Women’s Month 2024, it’s vital to acknowledge the significant strides women have made, particularly in education and political representation, while recognising the persistent challenges, including underrepresentation in leadership and gender-based violence (GBV).
• The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) offers new opportunities for women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields like technology and engineering, while remote work provides greater flexibility in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
• Despite progress, GBV remains a critical issue. The 4IR can play a key role in addressing this through data analytics, digital reporting, and education, underscoring the need for a collective effort to create a safer and more inclusive society.

As we commemorate Women’s Month in 2024, a time to honour women’s achievements and highlight the ongoing battle against gender-based violence (GBV) and systemic inequalities, we stand at a pivotal moment in the advancement of women in society. Reflecting on the remarkable progress women have made, especially within the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), is crucial. This era of rapid technological advancement presents both opportunities and challenges for women’s empowerment.

Over the past three decades, women have made significant strides, particularly in education and political representation. In South Africa, women’s representation in Parliament increased from 28% in 1994 to 45% in 2019, demonstrating a commitment to gender equality in governance. Furthermore, since 2017, the number of women graduating from public universities has surpassed that of men, indicating a shift towards higher academic achievement among women.

These milestones are critical in enabling women to participate fully in society. However, the glass ceiling remains a formidable barrier. As of 2021, women held only 36% of senior management positions, highlighting the ongoing underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. This disparity underscores the need for continued advocacy and legislative reform to ensure equitable opportunities for women in positions of power.

The 4IR offers unique opportunities for women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields such as engineering and technology. The integration of digital technologies has opened new career paths and possibilities for women to thrive. Programmes encouraging girls to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education are vital in equipping them with the skills necessary for success in a technologically advanced economy.

Moreover, the rise of remote work has provided women with greater flexibility, allowing them to balance personal and professional responsibilities more effectively. This adaptability is particularly important in addressing the gender disparities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw an increase in domestic duties disproportionately affecting women.

While celebrating progress, it is essential to acknowledge that GBV remains a pervasive issue hindering women’s safety and empowerment. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted a concerning increase in domestic violence, prompting greater awareness and support for policies aimed at preventing GBV. Efforts to empower women must include a concerted fight against GBV. Governments and organisations must prioritise programmes that protect women from violence and provide them with social and economic power.

The 4IR can play a pivotal role in addressing GBV through data analytics, digital reporting, and education. Big data can help identify trends and hotspots, facilitating targeted interventions and resource allocation. Digital platforms can empower individuals and communities by providing anonymous reporting, raising awareness about harmful norms, and offering support services.

Women’s Month 2024 not only celebrates the advancements made by women in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution but also emphasises the ongoing fight against systemic barriers and gender-based violence. The 4IR presents an opportunity for women to redefine their roles and break through the glass ceiling, but the battle against GBV must be a collective effort. By leveraging technology and promoting structural changes, we can create a safer, more equitable, and inclusive society where women can thrive and lead.