Vivo Energy Ghana has held its 2026 ShePower Summit at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, drawing more than 500 students, academics and industry participants.

The event, organised to mark International Women's Day, focused on encouraging more women to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Held at the university’s College of Engineering, the summit featured mentorship sessions, panel discussions and student exhibitions. Participants engaged with professionals from the energy sector and discussed opportunities and challenges for women in engineering.

Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, Christian Li, said the company is supporting initiatives that connect students with industry and expand access to mentorship.

A key announcement at the event was the launch of the NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge, aimed at encouraging students to develop solutions to energy-related problems in Ghana.

Dean of the Faculty of Civil and Geo-Engineering at KNUST, Kwaku Amaning Adjei, said the programme comes at a time of change in the global energy sector, including a shift towards more sustainable systems. He noted that women remain underrepresented in engineering but said the situation is gradually improving.

Prof. David Ato Quansah, Director of the Brew-Hammond Energy Centre, said access to energy remains important for development and highlighted gender disparities in the sector. Citing international data, he said women make up about 20 percent of the global energy workforce.

Speaking on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, the Municipal Chief Executive for Oforikrom, Anwel Sadat Ahmed, said programmes that support women in STEM contribute to national development.

Panel discussions at the summit addressed issues including barriers faced by female engineering students and the role of women in shaping energy solutions. Students also presented prototypes and ideas aimed at addressing energy challenges.

Following the event, officials from Vivo Energy Ghana and KNUST signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration between the university and industry. The agreement includes support for student-focused initiatives such as the innovation challenge.