The Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD), University of Cape Coast has marked the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) with an event to commend the achievement and roles of women across the world.
The event, which included cultural performances and an awards presentation, was under the theme, “Accelerate Action for Women and Girls: Rights, Equality and Empowerment."
March 8 each year is officially set aside by the United Nations as a day to recognise women who have advocated for gender equality and supported charities that focus on women’s issues. It is a day of united global activism and celebration that is inclusive of everyone committed to advancing women’s equality.
Speaking at the event, a High Court judge, Her Ladyship Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur, urged society to empower women to promote gender equality.
According to her, there were gender differentials in many areas, and decision-making was one of such, resulting in women's participation in the representation of decision-making structures and systems being lower than that of men.
Her Ladyship Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur
She charged women and girls not to be silent in the face of injustice.
" Let us insist that our sexuality as women and girls shouldn't be the measure of our successes. Therefore, we must refuse to offer our sexuality to be exploited for promotion, advancement and recognition, " she continued.
She pointed out that academic institutions had a role in shaping the future of gender equality.
"Universities and schools must commit to fostering an environment where women and girls are empowered not just in theory but practice. This means integrating gender sensitive policies, promoting women into leadership roles and addressing gender-based harassment and discrimination on campuses," she added.
She called for concerted efforts to address gender inequality, stressing, “Gender equality is not just a women's issue. It is a human rights issue."
She called for mentorship for women and young girls in communities.
The Director of CEGRAD, Prof. Eunice Fay Amissah, explained the significance of the event and the importance of women celebrating one another.
According to her, the day celebrates women for their immense contribution towards national development and raises awareness on the need for equality in all spheres of life.
Some participants in the IWD celebration
She said fighting gender disparity and making a difference were some of the actions that made International Women’s Day impactful.
She pointed out that gender-based violence and lack of representation in leadership roles were inimical to the progress of women.
At the event, Prof. Mary Botchwey was honoured by CEGRAD for her invaluable contributions towards gender equality.
The event was chaired by a former Pro Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Prof Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh. Also present was the Provost of the College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Prof. Moses Jojo Eghan, who represented the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Aheto, as special guest.
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC