Mainstreaming Gender in the Analyses of Science Technology and Innovation Policies

Lindile L. Ndabeni, Polly M. Mashigo, Mbongi Ndabeni, Robert Rugimbana

Abstract: Economic and scientific discourse is often framed in a neutral language where women largely become invisible. However, the discourse remains male coded with its focus mainly on male coded production systems. Mainstreaming gender particularly in the analyses of innovation systems and policy can improve the development of responsive science technology and innovation policies. More significantly, a gender perspective shifts our attention from viewing women as individuals to interactional and institutional structures that reproduce inequalities and opens up opportunities for socio-economic change. In this literature-based conceptual paper, the authors contend that improved gender awareness can lead to the generation of new knowledge and refreshing insights for policy development and further research.

Keywords: innovation, policies