Int’l Women’s Day: Lordina proud of girl child participation in STEM education

First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama says she is proud of the growing participation of Ghanaian girls in STEM education as the world marks International Women’s Day.

The message, signed by Mrs. Mahama in her capacity as First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, highlighted progress made in empowering women and girls while urging continued efforts to achieve gender equality.

In her message to commemorate the 2026 celebration, Mrs. Mahama said Ghana had made encouraging strides in expanding opportunities for women and girls, particularly in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“I am proud of the progress our country has achieved, including increased interest in and enrollment of girls in STEM education, support for women farmers through cooperative strengthening, and the rise of more women leaders in district assemblies, the corporate sector, and boardrooms,” she stated.

The First Lady urged Ghanaians to take deliberate steps toward advancing gender equality, stressing that investing in women and girls benefits society as a whole.

“As we observe International Women’s Day 2026, I encourage every Ghanaian to reflect on what you will Give to Gain gender equality,” she said. “Will you mentor a young woman starting her own business? Will you advocate for your daughter’s education as passionately as you do for your son’s?”

Mrs. Mahama noted that empowering women strengthens families, communities and the nation.

“Always remember that investing in women brings benefits. When women succeed, families flourish, communities thrive, and the nation advances,” she added.

Despite progress made in recent years, she pointed out that challenges remain, including school dropouts among girls, limited access to funding for women entrepreneurs and underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles.

She called for sustained national commitment to ensure that women and girls are not left behind in development efforts.

Drawing inspiration from an Akan proverb, Mrs. Mahama encouraged collective responsibility in addressing gender gaps.

“Together, we must go back and lift every woman and girl we may have left behind, for in their rise, Ghana rises,” she said.

International Women’s Day (IWD), observed globally on March 8 each year, recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and also serves as a call to accelerate gender parity.

She also urged citizens, institutions and policymakers to embrace the spirit of cooperation and support that has long characterised Ghanaian communities as the country works toward achieving lasting gender equality.