In a historic moment for Ghana’s democracy, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang is set to become the country’s first female vice-president following the concession of defeat by Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), in the December 7 general elections.
This historic feat comes as her running mate, John Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate and former president is set to return to power.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelBorn on 22 November 1951, in Cape Coast, Ghana, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is a distinguished academic and public servant. She holds a Bachelor of Education in English and French from the University of Cape Coast, a Diploma in Advanced Studies from the University of Dakar, and master’s and doctorate degrees from York University in Canada.
As a trailblazer in academia, she made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a public university in Ghana, leading the University of Cape Coast from 2008 to 2012. Her influence extended into government when she served as Minister of Education from 2013 to 2017 under John Mahama’s presidency. Currently, she holds the position of Chancellor at the Women’s University in Africa, based in Zimbabwe.
Her elevation to the vice presidency is being hailed across Ghana as a triumph for gender equality and a symbol of progress. Supporters view her as a beacon of change, particularly for women in politics, and anticipate significant contributions in education and economic reform.
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Celebrations are sweeping through the nation, with many Ghanaians expressing optimism about her ability to bring transformative leadership to the country. By breaking the glass ceiling, Professor Opoku-Agyemang has paved the way for future generations of women in leadership and inspired hope for a more inclusive political landscape in Ghana.