It’s a win for gender inclusivity in politics on the continent.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang made history as the first woman vice president to be elected to office in Ghana, BBC reports. A native of Cape Coast, Central Region, she holds a Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Cape Coast and a Master’s and Ph.D. in English Literature from York University in Canada. In 2008, Opoku-Agyemang made history as the first woman to lead a public university in Ghana, serving as Vice-Chancellor, where she advocated for gender equity and upgraded infrastructure at the institution. In 2013, she was appointed Minister for Education under President John Mahama, making her foray into politics.
Opoku-Agyemang served as Minister of Education from 2013-2017, spearheading the construction of modern facilities, offering free textbooks and school uniforms, and banning the use of makeshift schools. In 2020, Mahama named Opoku-Agyemang as his running mate, making history again as the first woman nominated by a major political party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). However, the duo lost their election, returning for a second campaign this year. Now, the professor has made history, Mahama and Opoku-Agyemang winning the elections, with the Cape Coast alumna making history as Ghana’s first woman vice president.
The victory marks a pivotal moment for Ghana and for the continent of Africa. A strong advocate for education and combatting gender-based violence against Ghanaian women, Opoku-Agyemang brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. In addition to her work in academia, Opoku-Agyemang also serves on the executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), is a member of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, a Fellow of the Commonwealth of Learning, and on the editorial board of the Harriet Tubman Series on the African Diaspora.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang has already received a bevy of support and many are excited to see what she does in her new role. Her win symbolizes progress for the nation and the beginning of a more equitable political landscape for the world.
Cover photo: Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Makes History as First Woman VP to Be Elected in Ghana/