Architect imbalance under fire

The “unacceptably low number” of women in South Africa’s demanding profession, architecture, needs urgent attention if the current imbalance is to be addressed, according to architectural industry professionals.

At an SA Institute of Architects Eastern Cape (SAIA EC) meeting in Port Elizabeth last week, the provincial chapter of the national voluntary body discussed the dire situation that sees just 21% of registered architects countrywide comprising women.

“SAIA believes there is a lack of understanding with regards to women architects’ issues,” institute Eastern Cape president Neill Kievit said at a Women in Architecture SA (WiASA) meeting last week.

To address the imbalance, WiASA had introduced a programme last year to:

• Consider access into the profession and the entry of black women;
• Encourage women to remain in the profession;
• Support women in building successful careers in architecture; and
• Support the development of women-owned practices.

Overall, it aimed to “transform women in the profession, as well as women wanting to enter the profession”.