Industry organisation the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb) has expanded its 2026 Empowerment and Recognition of Women in Construction (ERWIC) Awards with the introduction of an Academic Excellence category, recognising researchers, lecturers and industry educators whose work is advancing South Africa’s construction and built environment sector through teaching, research, mentorship, innovation and industry engagement.

The closing date for entries has been extended to July 10 and entries can be submitted at www.erwicawards-cidb.co.za.

The new category reflects the cidb’s recognition that the future of construction is shaped not only on project sites, but also in lecture halls, research institutions and industry learning environments, the organisation points out.

It says that, by recognising women whose work is generating new knowledge, improving construction practices and developing future professionals, the expanded awards programme acknowledges the diverse contributions that strengthen the industry’s growth and transformation.

“The ERWIC Awards celebrate women whose leadership, expertise and commitment are helping to transform South Africa’s construction industry.

“The introduction of the Academic Excellence category recognises the important contribution made by researchers, lecturers and industry educators to advance construction knowledge, strengthen professional practice, drive innovation and develop the skills our sector needs to thrive,” says cidb CEO Bongani Dladla.

Now in its seventh year, the cidb ERWIC Awards aim to recognise women making a measurable contribution across the construction value chain.

The awards celebrate excellence across diverse areas of the industry, from project delivery and professional services to innovation, manufacturing, mentorship, transformation and disability inclusion.

The awards form part of the cidb’s broader commitment to building a more inclusive, capable and transformed construction industry.

While women remain underrepresented in the construction sector, progress is being made, the organisation avers.

According to the cidb’s Construction Monitor, women accounted for 11% of the about 1.26-million people employed in South Africa's construction sector at the end of the second quarter of 2025.

“By recognising excellence across the profession, the cidb aims to inspire greater participation by women and encourage more leaders who will help shape the industry's future,” it highlights.