Ghana has achieved a historic milestone by electing Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as its first female Vice President. Running alongside President-elect John Dramani Mahama under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) banner, her victory in the 2024 elections makes Ghana the 10th African nation to have a female Vice President, marking a transformative moment in the country’s democratic and gender equity journey.

Born on 22 November 1951 in Cape Coast, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is an accomplished academic and public servant. She made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a state university in Ghana, leading the University of Cape Coast from 2008 to 2012. With an impressive academic background, including a B.Ed. in English and French from the University of Cape Coast and advanced degrees from York University in Canada, she has held numerous leadership roles in academia and government. Notably, she served as Ghana’s Minister for Education from 2013 to 2017, implementing key educational reforms during her tenure.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s ascent to the Vice Presidency symbolizes a significant step forward for women’s political participation in Ghana and Africa at large. Despite progress, women’s representation in African parliaments remains low at 24%, often hindered by patriarchal norms, restrictive systems, and insufficient political will. Her election serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for greater inclusivity in leadership roles across the continent.

Her legacy is not only built on breaking barriers but also on advocating for education, cultural understanding, and women’s empowerment. With her deep commitment to public service and a history of pioneering achievements, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s tenure is expected to inspire a new generation of leaders and advance Ghana’s pursuit of gender equity in governance.