Gender Mainstreaming Directorate Holds 2nd Phase of Leadership Seminar

The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has organised a day’s symposium for UEW women leaders, staff and students at the North Campus Assembly Hall in Winneba. 

The seminar, which took place on Wednesday, 11th August, 2021, was under the theme “Women’s Journey to Leadership: Challenges, Opportunities and Way Forward”.

Prof. Emmanuel Obed Acquah

Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Anthony Afful-Broni, the Director, Quality Assurance, Prof. Emmanuel Obed Acquah, who doubled as the chairman for the seminar congratulated the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate for their drive and enthusiasm in mobilising and informing the UEW women on crucial topics even within the COVID-19 period.

He appealed to participants to run after what they wished for in their careers and not to give up. “The leadership role is loaded and women must go for activity-oriented work that is more visible, accept critical responsibilities as if they were gold mines, take up heavily packed assignments that lead to promotions and market yourself to the top.”

Some women leaders, staff and students who were at the North Campus Assembly Hall in Winneba

Speaking on the keynote address, the Ag. Director of Health Services, UEW, Dr. (Mrs.) Beth Offei-Awuku shared her life experiences and leadership journey. She emphasised that the journey had not been easy at all due to some failures she encountered, but with perseverance and determination, she was able to achieve her goals in life.

Dr. Beth urged participants not to look at their present grades, but rather strive to be better versions of themselves because education is not a race. “Growing up I was an average student, but with hard work, sovereign hand from others and determination I was able to achieve my aims.”

 Dr. (Mrs.) Beth Offei-Awuku exhorting participants not to look at their present situations but rather strive to be better versions of themselves

Dr. Beth advised attendees to have mentors who would provide professional guidance as well as serve as advocates or promoters to them and they should also endeavour to mentor others. 

“In life you will meet naysayers who will intimidate and detract you, but that shouldn’t discourage you but rather it should gusto you to re-strategise and become a better version of yourself,” she noted.

Contributors giving their contributions during the open forum session

She further acknowledged the importance of reading when it comes to leadership. She appealed to participants to read more books to develop themselves, and also build adversity preparedness in other to overcome any challenges they face. 

During the open forum session, participants were allowed to ask questions which were answered by the keynote speaker.