African women in science: the research retreats perspective

African women participate in science through various research activities in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The engagement of African women can continue to benefit the research community if they are given opportunities such as funding, scholarships and research retreats. However, African women still face challenges in HEIs including inadequate knowledge production through publications whereas research retreats have the ability to assist in the contribution of basic research or applied research. Therefore, in a bid to help African women in science, particularly in overcoming structural obstacles that prevent their transition from higher education to active research careers, the main objective of this paper was to explore African women in science, specifically to explore African women’s perspective on their participation in science and the underutilized potential opportunities of research retreats. This perspective paper deployed a qualitative approach based on integrative literature review as a research methodology. Content analysis was used to avail themes. The findings revealed that participation of African women in science particularly research needs to consider the underutilized potential opportunities of research retreats like collaboration, exchange of knowledge and skills. The outcome of this paper has a practical implication for HEIs which are entrusted with research activities to avail research retreats in order to enhance the contribution of African women in science for the development of the continent.