Education key to breaking barriers for women and girls – Dr. Apaak

Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, Deputy Minister for Education, has called for greater investment in education as a key strategy to break barriers limiting women and girls in Ghana.

Speaking at the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (GAAS) Women’s Awards, Dr. Apaak said education provides women and girls with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to reach their full potential and contribute to national development.

He said the achievements of women across education, academia, science, business, public service, politics, the arts and community development demonstrate their critical role in Ghana’s progress.

“For us at the Ministry of Education, education remains one of the most important tools for achieving this,” he said.

Dr. Apaak also cited the words of renowned Ghanaian educationist Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you educate a whole nation.”

He said educating girls benefits not only individuals but also families, communities and the country as a whole.

“When we educate a girl, we are not only investing in her future; we are investing in her family, her community, and the future of our country,” he said.

The Deputy Minister further called for efforts to encourage more girls to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as well as research, innovation and leadership.

He said the government remains committed to building an education system that provides equal opportunities for boys and girls and enables every child to develop their talents.

Dr. Apaak delivered the speech on behalf of Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu at the GAAS Women’s Awards, held under the theme, “Breaking Barriers and Building Nations: Celebrating Women in Outstanding Leadership in Ghana.”

The event recognized Ghanaian women who have distinguished themselves through leadership and contributions to national development.