On December 8, 2024, history was made in Ghana with the election of Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as the first female Vice President of the Republic. This monumental achievement marked a significant milestone not just for Ghana but also for women across Africa striving for representation in leadershipBorn on November 22, 1951, in Cape Coast, Ghana, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s life has been a testament to hard work, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to education and public service. As an academic, policymaker, and advocate for gender equality, her career has left an indelible mark on Ghana’s educational and political landscape.
The Early Years and Academic Journey
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s foundation in education was laid at Wesley Girls’ High School, a premier institution in Cape Coast, where she studied between 1964 and 1971. She went on to the University of Cape Coast (UCC), earning a degree in English and French Education in 1977. Her thirst for knowledge led her further, earning a Diploma in Advanced Studies in French from the University of Dakar and later pursuing both her Master’s (1980) and Doctorate (1986) degrees at York University in Toronto, Canada.
Her extensive academic journey prepared her for a career dedicated to nurturing minds and advancing education. She began her teaching career at UCC in 1986 and quickly rose through the ranks to become a leader in academia.
Trailblazing Career Milestones
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s career is filled with groundbreaking achievements:
- In 1997, she served as the Academic Director for the School for International Training, focusing on African history and cultures.
- Between 2008 and 2012, she became Vice-Chancellor of UCC, making history as the first woman to hold this position at a Ghanaian university.
- In 2007, she represented Ghana at the 200th Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, cementing her reputation as a global advocate for justice and equality.
Her influence extended internationally when she was elected as Ghana’s representative to the UNESCO Executive Board in 2009, where she championed education and cultural initiatives on a global stage.
Political Journey and Ministerial Achievements
Professor Opoku-Agyemang transitioned into politics with the same determination and focus she displayed in academia. From February 2013 to January 2017, she served as Ghana’s Minister of Education, appointed by President John Dramani Mahama. During her tenure, she focused on inclusiveness and equity in education, most notably through the Inclusive Education Policy of 2015, which aimed to create opportunities for marginalized groups, including girls and children with disabilities.
Her advocacy for the education of the girl-child and gender equality resonated widely, earning her national and international acclaim.
Breaking Barriers as a Presidential Running Mate
In July 2020, Professor Opoku-Agyemang was selected as the running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana’s general elections. This made her the first woman to run as a vice-presidential candidate for one of Ghana’s two major political parties. Her candidacy was lauded by women’s groups and activists as a step toward greater gender parity in Ghanaian politics.
Her campaign emphasized sustainable development, youth empowerment, and educational reform, and her messages were marked by a dignified and issue-focused approach. Her efforts yielded significant results, helping the NDC secure nine out of Ghana’s sixteen regions, including critical swing regions like Greater Accra and her home region, the Central Region.
Honors and Global Recognition
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including:
- The Officer of the Order of the Volta Award for Academic Distinction in 2011.
- The Ghana Women of Excellence Award for her contributions to education.
- Recognition among the 40 Most Inspirational Female Leaders in Ghana in 2020.
- A spot on the list of the 100 Most Reputable Africans in 2023.
She has also received honorary degrees from the University of the West Indies, Winston-Salem University, and an award for Global Leadership from the University of South Florida.
A Life Rooted in Family and Faith
A devout Methodist, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s Christian faith has been a guiding force in her life. She is the proud mother of three children, all of whom hold PhDs, and a grandmother of two. Her family stands as a testament to her dedication to education and excellence.
Legacy and Inspiration
The election of Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as Vice President of Ghana is a victory not just for her but for all women aspiring to break barriers in politics, academia, and beyond. Her journey underscores the power of education, the importance of perseverance, and the need for inclusive leadership.
As Ghana celebrates this historic milestone, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s story will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all that with vision, determination, and a commitment to service, anything is possible.
If you’re inspired by her incredible journey, share this post and join the conversation about empowering women leaders globally.
