In an exclusive interview with Gumzang FM 90.1MHz, the STEM Coordinator for the Talensi Education Directorate, Mr. Dominic Akakore, sent a clarion call to parents, educators, and the media to dismantle the barriers preventing girls from excelling in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Speaking on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, themed “Girls in Technology, from Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap,” Mr. Akakore emphasized that the gap in science education isn’t a matter of capability, but of opportunity.
Mr. Akakore noted that while girls possess the same if not superior potential in science and math, they are often sidelined by a lack of encouragement and platforms.
“If you look at STEM education, the girls are behind. It’s not because they are not capable, but because they are not encouraged or exposed,” Akakore stated. “This celebration is to create awareness that girls can do what men can do in science and often do it better.”
Highlighting the hurdles facing the directorate, Akakore pointed to a lack of motivation from key stakeholders and a shortage of physical resources. He urged a shift in the cultural mindset:
* Parents must encourage their daughters to stay committed to science.
* The media plays a crucial role in showcasing female role models in STEM to inspire the younger generation.
* Inadequate funding remains a bottleneck for organizing large-scale district events that showcase local talent.
“When it comes to talent or creativity, there is no gender,” he argued, citing the iconic female moderators of Ghana’s National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) as proof of what women can achieve when given the stage.
While this year’s celebrations were held at the school level due to resource constraints, the Directorate is planning a massive showcase for International Maths Day on March 14, 2026.
Mr. Akakore revealed that the directorate is currently in talks with NGOs and corporate organizations to sponsor the major event. This upcoming program aims to display the innovative STEM projects emerging from the Talensi District and prove that with the right investment, the “gender gap” can be closed for good.