The Ghana Education Service (GES), through its National STEM Resource Unit, has commemorated the International Day for Women and Girls in Science with a renewed call to bridge the gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The event, held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, was organised under the theme: “GirlsInTech: From Vision to Impact – Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap”.

It brought together students, educators and development partners in a celebration of innovation, mentorship and opportunity for girls in science.

Showcasing Girls’ Innovation

Proceedings began with a project exhibition featuring innovative scientific works led by girls. The exhibition highlighted the creativity, analytical skills and problem-solving abilities of young female students, underscoring their growing contributions to STEM education and practice.

Students from Lawson Memorial Junior High School, The Apostolic Montessori, Chief Bello International School and Gold Avenue School participated actively in the exhibition.

They engaged presenters with thoughtful questions, explored new concepts and demonstrated keen interest in scientific inquiry.

The atmosphere reflected a deliberate effort to inspire confidence among girls while fostering collaborative learning across schools.

A Message of Confidence and Inclusion

The programme was chaired by Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi, Deputy Director-General (Management Services) of the Ghana Education Service.

In her address, Professor Dzisi expressed optimism about the future of science and urged girls to see themselves as central to shaping that future.

“The future of science is bright,” she noted, adding that girls must envision themselves at the forefront of innovation and discovery.

She reminded the girls that the day was dedicated to them — to ask questions, to remain curious and to use their voices boldly in pursuit of knowledge. At the same time, she called on boys to play an active role in promoting gender inclusion.

She encouraged male students to champion the ideas of girls, support their ambitions and inspire them to excel in STEM-related fields.

Addressing facilitators and educators, Professor Dzisi emphasised the critical role of responsible mentorship.

She stressed the importance of safeguarding young girls and ensuring that their vulnerability is never exploited in educational or professional settings.

Encouraging Determination in STEM

Mrs Olivia Serwaa Opare, Director of the Science Education Unit at the National STEM Resource Unit, also addressed participants.

She highlighted the need for girls to compete confidently with their male counterparts in science and related disciplines.

Mrs Opare urged them to pursue opportunities in STEM with determination and resilience, noting that competence and confidence must go hand in hand.

Her remarks reinforced the broader message of the event: that closing the gender gap in STEM requires not only institutional support but also self-belief and sustained effort from young women themselves.

Strategic Partnerships

The celebration was organised in partnership with UNESCO and received support from Experimento Ghana and PEN.

The collaboration, organisers said, strengthened the scope and impact of the programme, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing gender equity in science education.

The International Day for Women and Girls in Science, observed annually on 11 February, seeks to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls.