TheSmoothMedia "If you educate a man, you educate an individual but if you educate a woman, you educate a nation". These are the words of the late Ghanaian scholar, Dr. James Kwegir Aggrey.
His statement emphasized the importance of promoting women's education, which has significantly transformed the lives of numerous women.
He believed that educated women would pass on the value of education to their children, while nurturing and guiding them to be educated people themselves.
Gone are the days where girls or women were confined to the kitchen, ascribed the roles of mothers even at an early age.
Seeing a woman going to school to the secondary level was rare. What we were told was that "your place is the kitchen as a woman" Some couldn’t identify their potential and capabilities dwelling in them because they were hid in their kitchen.
But today, the world has evolved. times have changed, and women are no longer limited to the kitchen. There is gender equality. Women are discovering their potential through education.
Some women can even perform roles assigned to men better. To support this, the parliament of Ghana has passed the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act 2024. This law is meant to prioritize fair representation of women in government and also promote equity.
I look around and I see women bagging degree, masters degree, Master of philosophy (Mphil), Doctor of philosophy (PHD) and other titles. Yes, they are also contending for positions, participating actively in decision-making, and advocating for change in the society.
The first female vice president of Ghana, Professor Jane Naana Opoku- Agyemang, Ama Atta Aidoo (a renowned author), Zanetor Rawlings Korley Klotey, Abla Dzifa Gomashie (minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts), Oheneyere Gifty Anti (Girl Child's advocate) are some women who have made notable contributions and inspire others through their achievements.
While women are trying to break barriers and reach their potential, there are some challenges faced by them that need attention. In a personal experience and being in the media space, it has come to my realisation of a concerning issue.
Women seeking job opportunities are often vulnerable to exploitation. Individuals who have the power to provide a chance for them to work often need something in return.
And sometimes, it is difficult to speak out about this because some of these women face threats and intimidation.
This is gradually becoming a norm in society. Must powerful people continue to exploit women simply because they hold authority?
In addition the underrepresentation of women in decision-making positions. Most editors in newsrooms are males. Meanwhile, some females possess the skills required to take on editing roles but they are often denied the chance to prove themselves.
Unequal salaries is another challenge. Women in the media often receive lower salaries as compared to men in the same position. Especially with women who are freelancers.
The writer recommends strengthening the enforcement of the Affirmative Law to ensure fair representation and opportunities for women.
Further more, the implementation of policy that penalizes exploiters. Strict fines and imprisonment are some penalties to adopt to effectively deter offenders.
Ultimately, education and awareness. Educating women about their rights, boundaries and self worth can empower them to resist and report exploitation.
Let's break the silence on women's exploitation and promote equality for a bright future.
Feature by: Francisca Nanaba Amoako
