Akosombo: The Women in Chemistry Network has commemorated the 2026 International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a significant outreach initiative at Akosombo International School, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to bridge gender gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
According to Ghana News Agency, the event also included the Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Global Women's Breakfast, which brought together more than 100 students, teachers, researchers, and professionals. The themes for the celebration, 'From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap' and 'Many Voices, One Science,' underscored the importance of inclusivity in STEM fields.
Mrs. Sarah Freda Adei, the Headmistress of Akosombo International School, chaired the program and highlighted the celebration as a platform to empower girls and nurture future women scientists. She announced the establishment of a Best Female Student in Chemistry Award to inspire girls to pursue science and leadership roles.
Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, Founder and Convener of the Women in Chemistry Network (WICN), emphasized the need for ongoing advocacy to close gender gaps in STEM. The Network's activities include mentorship programs, excellence awards, male champions initiatives, and school outreach efforts. Professor Nkansah also revealed plans to launch the Women in Chemical Sciences Education Support later this year, seeking backing to ensure its success.
Professor Elsie Effah Kaufmann, Dean of the School of Engineering at the University of Ghana, urged participants to focus on evidence-based actions to tackle gender inequality in STEM. She pointed out that women comprise about 25 percent of Ghana's technical and engineering workforce, highlighting a persistent gap despite improved access to education.
Emerita Professor Mary Garson, President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, commended WICN for hosting the celebration at a high school. She noted that the Global Women's Breakfast connects more than 60 countries annually to promote dialogue, mentorship, and collaboration among women scientists.
Dr. Latifatu Mohammed Adjah, Secretary of WICN, remarked that diversity is a catalyst for innovation and problem-solving, asserting that science is incomplete without women's voices. She emphasized mentorship and male allyship as crucial factors in advancing equity and encouraged students to consider careers in science.
Participants at the event called on institutions, educators, researchers, and sponsors to collaborate on data-driven approaches to address Ghana's gender gap in science and engineering.