WiSTEMGh Marked International Day for Women and Girls in Science with Inspiring Leadership Event
In honor of the United Nations-designated International Day for Women and Girls in Science, WiSTEMGh, in collaboration with the GRASAG Gender Commission and the SRC/LNUGs Women’s Commission, hosted an inspiring event at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) on the 13th of February, 2025. Held at the Syndicate Room of the Institute of Distance Learning (IDL), the half-day event was themed “Women in Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability and Inclusivity.”
The event brought together students, academic leaders, and professionals to celebrate the achievements of women in STEM and to encourage the next generation of female scientists and leaders.
The program opened with a welcoming atmosphere, as attendees registered and gathered for a morning of motivation, discussion, and innovation. Following an opening prayer by a volunteer, Dr. Mrs Sandra Abankwah Kwarteng, a senior lecturer at the Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, highlighting the importance of gender equity in science and the ongoing need to empower women to take up leadership roles in the sector.
|
|
|
|
From left to right: The Host, Miss Beatrice Azumah commenced the event; a volunteer gave the opening prayer and Dr. Mrs. Sandra Abankwah Kwarteng gave the welcome address.
Renowned leadership and personal development coach Mrs Millicent Clarke delivered a powerful keynote speech titled “Redefining Your Power: Practical Leadership for Women.” Drawing on her decades of experience mentoring women across Africa, she spoke on topics including self-awareness, strategic goal-setting, emotional intelligence, and the importance of mental resilience.
“Leadership starts with clarity of purpose, and it grows through consistency and confidence,” Mrs Clarke said, urging young women to embrace their uniqueness and step into leadership without seeking permission. She shared her personal journey, emphasizing the value of community support and mentorship, and encouraged participants to defy stereotypes and pursue leadership opportunities within STEM fields.
Mrs. Millicent Clarke, a Leadership Coach, an Author and Human Resource Expert
There was then an engaging panel discussion moderated by Miss Beatrice Azumah, the discussion focused on the theme “Women in Leadership: Advancing and Sustaining Economic Prosperity, Social Justice, and Environmental Integrity.”
The Panelists were:
- Mrs Juliet Oppong-Asare Ansah – Lecturer, Department of Languages and Communication Sciences
- Dr. Akyana Britwum – Lecturer, Department of Physics and advocate for women in STEM
- Dr. Mrs Martina Francisca Baidoo – Lecturer, Department of Chemical Engineering
Each speaker shared professional experiences, insights into the systemic challenges faced by women in science, and strategies for promoting inclusive environments. Their personal narratives highlighted resilience and the power of leadership rooted in purpose and authenticity.
|
The Panelists from left to right: Mrs. Juliet Oppong-Asare Ansah, Dr. Akyana Britwum and Dr. Mrs. Martina Francisca Baidoo. |
|
Following a brief interlude with music from a talented female student performer, the event continued with an open forum on career development. Students engaged directly with speakers, asking questions about education, professional growth, and navigating careers in STEM.
The Photonic Team, made up of KNUST students, held an exhibition showcasing innovative science and technology projects. The exhibition underscored the creativity and potential of Ghana’s emerging scientific minds and added a dynamic, hands-on component to the day’s program.
|
|
|
Participants engaged in open forum discussions, asked questions and gave suggestions
The event concluded with closing remarks from the organizers. They expressed gratitude to all attendees and reiterated the need for continued support and collaboration to uplift women and girls in science. A final prayer brought the celebration to a close.
This commemorative event served as more than a celebration—it was a call to action. Through powerful speeches, open dialogue, and showcases of innovation, it reinforced the vital role women play in building a sustainable, inclusive future through science and leadership.
Event Recording
The program was live streamed and can be reached via the following link: https://youtube.com/live/EZluxmTehds?feature=share
Miss Emmanuella Owusu, Videographer, E-Learning Center.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Some highlights from the event