GMD-UEW Marks 2026 IWD, Calls for Gender Equity in Education and Opportunities

Mrs. Ekua Abedi-Boafo, the Registrar of UEW, underscored the University’s commitment to embedding gender equity into its governance systems, recruitment processes and student support frameworks. She emphasised that gender equality is not merely aspirational but must be reflected in institutional policies that guarantee fairness, dignity and opportunity for all. She further encouraged both male and female students to partner in promoting equity, stressing that gender issues require collective responsibility and action.

Highlighting the purpose of the gathering, Ms. Patricia Kaitoo, the Director of GMD-UEW, outlined three key objectives: reflection, education and action. She noted that while UEW has made strides in policy reforms and awareness creation, there remains a need to confront lingering societal and institutional barriers. She called on faculty, administrators, students and stakeholders to move beyond celebration and commit to measurable actions such as mentorship, advocacy and inclusive teaching practices that promote equal opportunities for all.

Chairing the event on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Richard Oduro, Dean of the School of Business, reiterated that investing in women yields significant social and economic benefits, including stronger institutions and more resilient communities. Drawing examples from Ghana and across Africa, he noted that increased access to education and leadership opportunities for women has led to improved national development outcomes.

He emphasised that gender equity must be treated as a developmental necessity and called for deliberate efforts to strengthen policies, expand mentorship and create leadership pathways for women within the University.

In a presentation on “Investing in Women’s Education: Knowledge as Power and Possibility,” Prof. Lucy Effeh Attom, Dean of the Faculty of Liberal and Social Studies Education, highlighted the transformative impact of education on women’s empowerment. She explained that investing in women’s education goes beyond financial support to include psychological, institutional and policy backing.

According to her, education enhances women’s confidence, economic independence and participation in governance while contributing to improved health outcomes and national development. However, she identified persistent challenges such as cultural barriers, poverty, gender-based violence and inadequate infrastructure that continue to hinder progress.

Contributing to the discourse, Prof. Andy Ofori-Birikorang, former Pro-Vice-Chancellor of UEW, stressed the importance of involving men in gender equity conversations. He argued that meaningful inclusion requires understanding the social and cultural barriers that limit male participation in gender advocacy. He further noted that gender equality benefits both men and women, calling for deliberate efforts to engage men as allies in dismantling discriminatory structures and promoting inclusive environments.

Hon. Barbara Asher Ayisi, former Member of Parliament and guest speaker, inspired participants with her personal journey, attributing her achievements to opportunities gained during her time at UEW. She encouraged students, particularly young women, to build confidence, take up leadership roles and seize available opportunities. She stressed that education, coupled with self-belief, is key to breaking barriers and achieving success, urging students to position themselves for leadership and national development.

The University also took the opportunity to honour Mrs. Wilhelmina Tete-Mensah, immediate past Ag. Registrar of UEW with a citation in recognition of her instrumental role in nurturing the GMD from its inception and contributing significantly to its growth and impact. Additionally, the Guest Speaker, Hon. Barbara Asher Ayisi, was presented with a special gift from the University as well as a framed pencil artwork from a student in appreciation of her inspiring address and commitment to gender advocacy and education.

The 2026 IWD celebration at UEW ended with a strong call for stakeholders to turn dialogue into action by promoting inclusive policies, mentorship and equal opportunities for all.