The Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA) at the University of Ghana has organized a policy dialogue on the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, under the theme: “The Affirmative Action Act: Implementation, Progress and Challenges.”
The event, held in partnership with the African Women’s Development Fund, NETRIGHT, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, brought together speakers and advocates to discuss gender equity and national development.
Chairing the event was Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo. In her remarks, she noted that the Affirmative Action Act is key to institutionalizing inclusive legislation that recognizes the roles of all women in national development.
“Let us remember that gender equity is not a woman’s mission—it is a national singular mission. When we empower women and strengthen women in a place of unity, as a community, we can make a difference. Let us not move forward while leaving the power of equality behind. Together, let us build a space where every girl can dream, every woman can dream, and every woman has an equal voice in shaping the future of the environment she grows up in.”
Students who attended the forum shared their excitement about the opportunity to learn more about gender policy, including how policies are developed and implemented through legal and institutional frameworks.
Speaking to Univers News ,some students at the event shared their experiences and key takeaways from the days event.
“The one thing I found interesting about today’s event was that the policy is still a work in progress, but governments and stakeholders are committed to making sure it’s implemented and works as intended. I learned a lot from the panel discussions—especially on issues I wasn’t aware of before,”one student said.
“It was very innovative, informative and educative. We hear about gender issues more in our generation, but attending these events gives us deeper insights. I now understand that policies and laws exist to support gender equality and empower women,” another remarked.
The seminar ended with a call to action, urging all participants to be active agents of change in their communities and workplaces by advancing conversations around gender equality in Ghana.
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By Sandra Abena Bansah|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Sika Togoh
