The advocacy for gender equity in Ghana has been a consistent theme in national discourse, with women increasingly breaking barriers and assuming leadership roles across various sectors. While the drive for female empowerment has gained significant traction, some argue that the emphasis on gender equity is almost becoming redundant due to the remarkable progress made.
However, others maintain that there is still much work to be done to ensure that every woman and girl has the opportunity to lead and contribute meaningfully to society.
Against the backdrop, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, Madam Jean Adukwei Mensa, delivered a compelling speech at the 75th Speech and Prize-Giving Day of Saint Mary’s Senior High School in Korle Gonno, stressing the urgency of empowering women and girls to take up leadership roles.
“The emergence of women at the top of the ladder drums home the urgency to empower and nurture women and equip them with the tools and skills to lead.”
Jean Mensa EC Chairperson
She further stressed that while progress has been made, there is a need for continuous efforts to encourage women to step forward and assume leadership roles in every sector of society. The call to empower women remains crucial, she noted, as women continue to break barriers and make significant contributions across various industries.
Breaking Barriers
Jean Mensa pointed out that Ghana has witnessed a historic shift, with women rising to occupy key leadership positions. She cited notable female trailblazers who have shattered glass ceilings in their respective fields.
“Right before our eyes, we witness women positioning themselves and occupying roles which were hitherto the preserve of men. Right here in our own country, we are witnesses to the rising of women—from our first female Vice President, Her Excellency Professor Jane Nana Opoku-Agyemang, to the first African woman Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Honorable Shelly Ayorkor Botcwey, a Smorgan, to our first female Chief Justice, and your own Smorgan, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.”
Jean Mensa EC Chairperson
She celebrated these milestones as evidence that the proverbial glass ceiling has cracked in significant places, allowing women to pursue and achieve greater heights. Jean Mensa urged young girls to take inspiration from these role models and strive for excellence in their own pursuits.
Seizing the Moment
Jean Mensa passionately encouraged the students of Saint Mary’s Senior High School to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
“Seventy-five years ago, few women dared to dream of such heights. Such dreams were merely whispers often stifled by a society that confined women’s ambitions. Today, those barriers are broken, and you, our young ladies, must seize the moment.”
Jean Mensa EC Chairperson
She challenged the students to embrace discipline, hard work, and determination as they pursue their dreams.
“It is possible for you to become who you want to be. And so I encourage you, our young girls, to dream and to become, to dream and to occupy high office, to dream and to achieve great feats through hard work, discipline, and determination.”
Jean Mensa EC Chairperson
Jean Mensa emphasized that with the right mindset and work ethic, young girls could surpass the achievements of their predecessors and contribute significantly to national development.
While Ghana has made notable progress in promoting gender equality, the need to empower and support women remains a pressing issue.
Jean Mensa’s speech serves as a powerful reminder that while women have broken many barriers, there is still more to be done to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities.
As Ghana continues its journey towards full gender equity, the commitment to nurturing and empowering future female leaders continue to remain a discussive theme amid its democracy.
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