This year’s International Women’s Day, is under the theme “Accelerating Action”. The global community is called to take proactive steps toward achieving gender equality. At the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), this message resonates deeply with women who continue to break barriers and drive change in various fields.

For Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, the Director of Student Affairs, the path to true equity requires collective action. She believes that both men and women must take an active interest in the advancement of women, as gender equality benefits society as a whole.

“When women do well, the entire community thrives. Everyone is connected to a woman in one way or another, and everything that contributes to the well-being of women ultimately benefits everyone.”

Professor Nkansah supports affirmative action but cautions against reducing it to mere tokenism. She believes that representation must be meaningful and impactful.

“Affirmative action should not be about symbolic representation. It should be about having women who truly represent and advocate for other women at decision-making tables. In fact, it could even be a man who is genuinely invested in the cause of women’s empowerment.”

She emphasizes that while collective action is crucial, it must begin at the individual level.

“From the family unit to the community, the national stage, and even on a global scale, if every individual plays their part, it creates a ripple effect. Meaningful change starts with personal commitment.”

For Nana Yaa Aduakye, the Women’s Commissioner of the Student Representative Council (SRC), International Women’s Day serves as an inspiration.

“Choosing a day to honour women who have risen above challenges to make a global impact motivates us, the younger generation, to aim higher.”

She believes that the success stories of accomplished women reinforce the idea that young women can also achieve great things, despite obstacles.

“Seeing these women thrive despite all odds inspires me to do more. Their resilience proves that we, too, can push boundaries and create change.”

Agnes Eleanor Fafali Ofori, a first-year engineering student, is passionate about breaking gender stereotypes in male-dominated fields. She believes that young women should be encouraged to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.

“Women are capable of pushing beyond boundaries to achieve anything they set their minds to.”

She advocates for empowering young girls, especially those in Senior High Schools, to believe in themselves and challenge societal stereotypes.

“We need to encourage young girls to consider careers in fields like engineering and prove that they can excel just as much as men. It is time to eliminate the notion that some professions are meant only for men.”