The Ghana Young Academy (GhYA) has marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a virtual event highlighting the role of women in scientific research and the need to address gender gaps in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The event, themed “Six Voices, One Future: Women Shaping Ghana’s Science Landscape,” was held on February 28, 2026. It formed part of activities marking the global observance of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which is celebrated annually on February 11.

The programme brought together scientists, educators, students and policymakers to discuss the contributions of women in science and ways to improve gender equity in STEM fields.

In her welcome remarks, Co-Chair of the Ghana Young Academy, Ing. Dr. Latifatu Mohammed, said the event was intended to recognise the progress made by women in science while highlighting existing challenges.

“Today is more than a celebration. It is a moment of reflection, recognition and renewed commitment,” she said, noting that gaps remain in representation, leadership, funding and visibility for women in scientific fields.

The keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Olivia Serwaa Opare, Director of STEM at the National STEM Resource Unit of the Ghana Education Service.

She said scientific knowledge plays an important role in sectors such as agriculture, water management, healthcare, renewable energy and environmental protection.

“When women are included in science, society benefits from wider ideas, deeper insights and stronger solutions,” she said.

Mrs. Opare also stressed the importance of encouraging girls to develop interest in science at an early stage.

“A girl does not become a scientist at the university; she becomes one the day a teacher tells her she is capable of solving a problem,” she said.

Dr. Antoinette Simpah Anim-Jnr, who moderated the programme, spoke about the significance of the global observance and highlighted the continuing gender gap in scientific fields.

According to her, women account for about one-third of researchers worldwide and roughly 30 per cent of science professionals in Africa, while about one in four STEM jobs in Ghana is held by a woman.

“These numbers are not just statistics,” she said. “They represent lost potential, untapped innovation and unheard perspectives.”

The event also featured a series of “Lightning Talks,” during which six female scientists shared their research and professional experiences. The speakers were Dr. Benedicta Essel Ayamba of the CSIR–Soil Research Institute, Dr. Bernice Yram Danu of the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Dr. Anita Adwoa Oppong of the University of Ghana, Dr. Jemima Owusuah Asante of Cape Coast Technical University, Dr. Lawrencia Osae-Nyarko of the CSIR–Water Research Institute and Dr. Mavis Sersah Nyarko of the University of Ghana.

An interactive panel discussion titled “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures” also examined challenges faced by women in science, including limited access to research funding, mentorship gaps, and balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

Participants also discussed measures that could help strengthen support systems and expand opportunities for women and girls pursuing careers in science.