The Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (WiSTEM) Chapter at the University for Development Studies (UDS) has commemorated this year’s International Women’s Day with an inspiring event focused on mentorship, empowerment, and health awareness. The celebration was held under the theme “Give to Gain through Teaching, Training, Counseling and Social Support,” highlighting the transformative power of sharing knowledge, guidance, and support among women in STEM fields.

The event brought together students, academics, and professionals to reflect on the importance of nurturing the next generation of women scientists and innovators while strengthening networks of mentorship and solidarity.

The President of WiSTEM UDS Dr. Emelia Guo, explained that the theme for the celebration was deliberately chosen to emphasise the importance of mentorship, knowledge sharing, and mutual support among women in science and technology.

“The idea of ‘Give to Gain’ reminds us that when we share our knowledge, mentor others, and provide support to those coming behind us, we also grow and benefit as a community,” Dr. Guo said. “Through teaching, training, counseling and social support, we can empower more young women to confidently pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”

Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Seidu Al-hassan, the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Professor Muniru Iddrisu, underscored the critical role women play in advancing science and development. He also used the occasion to encourage women to prioritise their health, drawing attention to the importance of awareness and early detection of cervical cancer.

“Empowering women in STEM must go hand in hand with ensuring their wellbeing. When women are healthy, supported, and empowered, they are able to contribute meaningfully to innovation, research, and national development,” Professor Iddrisu stated.

A major highlight of the event was a lecture by Professor Mrs. Ibok Nsa Oduro, who spoke on the philosophy and impact of giving. In a compelling presentation, she explained that giving goes far beyond financial contributions and can take many forms, including mentorship, collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community support.

“Giving and receiving are mutually rewarding acts that promote learning, growth, and stronger communities,” she noted. “Collaboration transforms ‘doing it alone’ into ‘doing it together,’ accelerating progress and broadening impact.”

Professor Oduro also shared findings from a survey involving 1,000 women, which revealed that mentorship is a key driver of confidence and professional growth among women. She concluded with a powerful message of solidarity and shared purpose.

“My story is your story. When we lift one another up, we all move forward,” she emphasized.

Participants were also inspired by Engineer Professor Gordana Kranjac-Berisavljevic, a long-serving professor of Agriculture at UDS who has taught at the university since 1995. Reflecting on her early years in academia, she recounted the challenges she faced teaching mathematics, a subject many students initially found daunting. She expressed pride in the many students she has mentored over the years, some of whom have grown into accomplished professionals and joined her on the event’s panel.

The event further featured a health education session led by Dr. Joyce Kayu Amoah, a distinguished alumna of UDS, who delivered an informative presentation on cervical cancer. She explained that cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Africa.

Dr. Amoah provided insights into the role of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in the development of cervical cancer and outlined the stages through which HPV infection can progress from precancerous changes to full cancer if not detected early.

“Early detection and vaccination are the most effective tools we have in preventing cervical cancer,” she explained, encouraging women to take advantage of screening opportunities.

She also announced plans for a cervical cancer screening and vaccination exercise at UDS, aimed at improving early detection and prevention among students and staff.

Representatives from Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB) also engaged participants with a session on financial safety and digital security. They cautioned attendees about the rising threat of cyber fraud and encouraged vigilance when conducting financial transactions. The bank further introduced some of its customer-oriented policies, including the “13 Disease” insurance plan and other insurance products designed to enhance financial protection and wellbeing.

The event concluded with renewed calls for mentorship, collaboration, and sustained support for women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Overall, the International Women’s Day celebration organised by the WiSTEM UDS Chapter successfully promoted mentorship, raised critical health awareness, and strengthened the spirit of solidarity among women in STEM, reinforcing the university’s commitment to empowering women to lead and excel in scientific and technological fields.

Story by Humul Kulsum Musa
(UDS Media)