Madam Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament representing La Dadekotopon, has called for significant investment in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Ghana. Speaking on the floor of Parliament to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Madam Sowah emphasized the importance of initiatives promoting gender equality and inclusion in scientific leadership roles to bridge the existing STEM gap.
Madam Sowah highlighted the need for mentorship programs, support networks, and policies aimed at fostering gender equality and inclusivity in scientific decision-making processes. She pointed out that systemic barriers, cultural biases, and institutional constraints often hindered women and girls' full participation in science-related fields, including access to quality education, job opportunities, and leadership roles.
Acknowledging the disparities between boys' and girls' participation in science events and enrollment in science classes, Madam Sowah urged fellow MPs to dismantle barriers and create an enabling environment for women and girls to thrive in science leadership roles. She emphasized the role of legislators in fostering gender equity and promoting opportunities for women and girls in STEM fields.
Madam Sowah advocated for the celebration and amplification of the achievements of women and girls in science leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their resilience, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. She commended exceptional young ladies from her constituency, including medical students Zacharia-Sidique Rahma and Mensah Selassie Isabella, for their dedication and excellence in the field of science.
Supporting Madam Sowah's call for investment in STEM education, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the NDC MP for Tamale South, emphasized the importance of tools and initiatives promoting STEM and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Madam Angela Oforiwa Alorwu Tay, NDC MP for Afadjato South, urged the Education Committee of Parliament to prioritize STEM and initiate policies offering girls in STEM small privileges to boost their interest.
Mr. Patrick Yaw Boamah, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Okaikwei Central, called for special incentives and government support for women and girls in the STEM sector to break barriers and bridge gaps. Other MPs, including Mr. Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzra and Professor Hamza Adam, encouraged young girls to pursue science courses extensively, while Madam Patricia Appiagyei, the NPP MP for Asokwa, urged successful women in STEM to mentor young girls.
Madam Helen Adjoa Ntoso, the NDC MP for Krachi West, proposed policy guidelines from the Ghana Education Service to include science lessons in students' formative academic stages, ensuring a strong foundation in STEM subjects. Madam Comfort Doyeo Cudjoe, NDC MP for Ada, stressed the importance of inclusivity in promoting STEM and ICT education at both local and national levels.
Presiding over the session, Mr. Joseph Osei-Owusu, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, urged science teachers to provide practical examples to students, enabling them to apply scientific concepts in their daily lives.
The collective call from MPs underscores the necessity of concerted efforts to promote STEM education and empower women and girls to thrive in science-related fields in Ghana.