Addressing a discussion of African First Ladies on Science Technology and Mathematics (STEM) in the margins of the 69th UN General Assembly in New York, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission has cautioned that “Africa cannot reach its goal of prosperity without focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”

Dr. Dlamini Zuma advised that, “We must make a deliberate effort to ensure that girls have access to primary, secondary and tertiary education and are stirred toward Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.” She also raised the need for role models to spur and encourage the younger generation.