Women's participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics hovers around 30% in Ghana.

Despite developments in local initiatives to promote STEM education, financial hindrances, cultural factors, and limited access are key barriers to its full development.

Six underprivileged young women at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology have been assisted by the Francis Faki Amanquah Foundation to pursue STEM education.

The landscape of females in science is leapfrogging in Ghana.

Six talented young women at the KNUST were presented their awards as the second Cohort of the Francis Faki Amanquah Foundation (FFAF) Scholarship Scheme to pursue computer science and computer engineering.

The beneficiaries were selected based on their performance over the past year and will receive support until they complete their programs at the university.

The scholarship awards comprise tuition, accommodation, stipends and a laptop.

Chief Executive Officer of Francis Faki Amanquah Foundation (FFAF), Mercy Bruce Amanquah, says the support will allow the young women to become positive advocates for the nation.

“In supporting our scholars our hope is that they will pay it forward to transform lives in their communities and the world. Our belief is that they will in turn return as alumni of the Foundation to assist us to support more young women.

“We are developing an alumni program for life after graduating from KNUST. By investing in these scholars, FFAF not only continues Francis Faki Amanquah legacy but also helps create a pipeline of talent that can drive innovation and progress in Ghana and the world,” she said.

The low level of female STEM professionals as role models have been found to perpetuate stereotypes and reduce motivation among girls.

The scholarship benefits will run a mentorship program for scholars.

“Also, research has shown that one of the reasons why only 28% of women occupy the STEM workforce globally and 30% in Ghana is because they do not have enough role models in these fields to look up to. As a result, our scholars, apart from the financial assistance, are assigned to mentors who will engage with them and encourage them during their journey on our program.

“For the next month, we're asking for support through donations of 60 Ghana cedis or 60 US dollars or other currency of choice. We urge you to pursue excellence in your studies and look forward to seeing how these awards propel you into the future and the incredible contributions you will make in the years to come,” Mercy Bruce Amanquah said.

The Pro Vice-chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Prof. David Asamoah, says the university is impressed with the focus on gender development of the foundation.

“We are very pleased to have a relationship with the foundation. Our vision hovers around strategic partnership. We are also glad that the focus is on women, and as a university we are positioned to support such dreams and initiatives,” he said.

Beneficiaries say the support will allow them to study with a sound mind and help achieve their academic and professional goals.

“We are grateful for the recognition for our hard work and academic excellence. As recipients of this scholarship, we are humbled. This award is not just a recognition but a testament of the foundation’s commitment to supporting women to bridge gaps and excel in computer science,” said one of the beneficiaries.