Mafi-Kumase SHTS elects first female prefect to end over 40years male dominance

Mafi Kumase Senior High Technical School (MAKSTEC) has made history by electing its first female head prefect since the school was founded in 1983.

In a landmark event celebrating gender equality, MAKSTEC, a mixed school, in the Central Tongu District, has ended a 40-year tradition of male prefects’ dominance. This significant shift reflects Ghana's recent parliamentary approval of the Affirmative Action Bill, which is awaiting presidential assent and aims to promote gender inclusivity nationwide.

During the event, the Assistant Head of Administration, Mr. Daniel Nanewodo, spoke about the school’s updated prefectorial policy. He stated, “Last year, the school took a giant step in reviewing the prefectorial system to empower girls to contest alongside boys for the position of head prefect. Under the new policy, the head prefect could either be a boy or a girl. He or she must be supported by assistant head prefect boy and assistant head prefect girl.”

Mr. Nanewodo commended the student body on their progressive choice, noting, “Today, students of Mafi Kumase Senior High Technical School have defied the 40-year-old norm by electing a female leader to lead them through the 2024-2025 academic year. This is a positive sign of the school being on the global page of gender inclusivity.”

In her acceptance speech, Miss Agor Perfect, the newly elected head prefect, highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration. She said, “I understand that leading as a female head prefect can be difficult at times, and there may be obstacles that stand in one’s way. But together, we have the power to overcome these challenges and make our school a better place.”

She added, “We will be a voice for each and every one of you, advocating for your needs and concerns. Together, we will tackle any challenges that arise and work to foster a sense of community and belonging, and to ensure that our school remains a place where we can all grow and learn together.”

Miss Agor’s election is a testament to MAKSTEC’s commitment to empowering girls and promoting gender equality.

.As the head of the new Student Representative Council (SRC), Miss Agor will be supported by Master Courage Davor and Miss Florence Dzamade as deputies, reflecting the school’s dedication to diversity.

In his closing remarks, Headmaster Mr. Hope Semavor praised the outgoing SRC for completing a new barbershop and retail shop complex initiated by their predecessors, as well as upgrading the school’s sound system with modern equipment. “I am very proud of you for identifying a problem and taking steps to solve it—I mean the sound system. We’re Oliver Twist, and we’ll continue asking for more,” he explained.

He lauded students for choosing competence over gender in this year’s SRC election by avoiding stereotypes and biases. He cautioned the new prefect not to lower the high expectations placed upon her, stating, “The pageantry that characterized your induction is a reminder that the best is yet to come. And as such, much is expected of you and your team going forward.”

The election of Miss Agor Perfect represents a beacon of hope for gender equality in Ghana’s mixed secondary schools. As the country advances with affirmative action legislation, MAKSTEC has set a shining example for others to follow.

   Comments0