The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has taken a significant step towards strengthening gender equality and inclusion in higher education by seeking a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP).
The University’s newly established Gender Inclusion and Vulnerability (GIV) Office paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, to explore areas of collaboration aimed at advancing gender-responsive policies and improving support for vulnerable groups within tertiary institutions.
Leading the KNUST delegation were the Head of the GIV Office, Prof. Mercy Badu, and the Office’s Support Desk Lead, Dr. Elizabeth Archampongma Archampong.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the University to introduce the mandate and strategic direction of the GIV Office, which was established to address the growing need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to gender inclusion and vulnerability on campus.
Speaking during the engagement, Prof. Badu explained that the creation of the Office was driven by the increasing number of students living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, highlighting the need for stronger institutional support systems that promote equity, dignity and equal opportunities.
She said the Office is committed to promoting gender equality, safeguarding and inclusion while ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into the University’s academic programmes, administrative systems and student governance structures.
Beyond the campus, the GIV Office also aims to contribute to national development through research, policy implementation support, capacity building and gender-responsive programmes that align with Ghana’s broader development agenda.
Prof. Badu noted that one of the key objectives of the visit was to establish a structured partnership with the Ministry, particularly in implementing initiatives that support the Ghana National Gender Policy and promote inclusive development.
Receiving the delegation, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey welcomed the initiative and commended KNUST for demonstrating leadership in addressing gender and vulnerability issues within the higher education sector.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of women, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, stressing that collaboration with academic institutions is essential to achieving sustainable and far-reaching impact.
The Minister encouraged the GIV Office to continue engaging with the Ministry and sharing its work, noting that partnerships between government and universities are critical in developing evidence-based policies and creating inclusive environments where no one is left behind.
The engagement reflects a shared commitment by both institutions to foster a society where gender equality, accessibility and inclusion are embedded in education and national development, ensuring that every individual—regardless of gender, ability or circumstance—has the opportunity to thrive.
