'Break down barriers preventing women from participating in STEAM' - Princess Lovia Tetteh

Globally, women make up only 28% of the workforce in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Despite this disparity, there are encouraging signs of progress, as the number of women pursuing higher education in STEM has increased significantly over the past two decades, according to UNESCO.

In Ghana, women represent only 14% of the STEM workforce (Ghana Statistical Service, 2020). However, initiatives like the Ghana Girls in STEAM program are working to close this gap.

Speaking at an International Women’s Day event organized in Ho by Node Women, Princess Lovia Tetteh, Executive Director of LoveAid Foundation, emphasized the urgent need to break down barriers preventing women from participating in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).

The youth and gender activist highlighted that while progress has been made, significant gender disparities remain in areas such as leadership representation and pay equity.

She noted, “Women in STEAM continue to face a 32% pay gap and hold only 13% of executive positions, despite their skills and contributions.”

Addressing these challenges requires intentional efforts, including advocacy for gender-inclusive policies, mentorship programs, and greater investment in girls’ education.

She pointed to global trends predicting the creation of 75 million STEAM-related jobs by 2022 as an opportunity for women to advance in these fields. “With the right support, we can equip young girls to seize these emerging opportunities,” she stated.

Miss Tetteh also referenced the Beijing Platform for Action (BPfA) as a crucial framework for achieving gender equality. Established in 1995, the BPfA calls for eliminating occupational segregation, promoting women's economic independence, and increasing female representation in decision-making roles.

“We must ensure that policies promoting women’s participation in STEAM are actively implemented and not just discussed,” the development practitioner urged.

She called for collective action to promote STEAM education for girls, address biases and stereotypes, and create inclusive workplaces that support women’s advancement. “Breaking barriers for women in STEAM is not just about fairness; it’s about building a more innovative and prosperous society,” she stated. Through continued advocacy and strategic investments, Ghana and the global community can foster a future where women and girls thrive in STEAM fields.

Perfect Mawulorm Amegboe, the Community Lead of Node Women, a sub-organization of Node Eight, explained that the theme for the event, "Accelerating Action for Gender Equality in STEAM," was inspired by the global theme for the 2025 Women’s Day celebration, which is "Accelerate Action Now!" According to her, the event aimed to build the capacity of girls and young women in STEAM education. Through partnerships with various women-led organizations, Node Women seeks to provide young girls and women with essential skills to enhance their careers. “Whether you're looking for hardcore tech skills or soft tech skills to integrate into your business, there are many opportunities available,” she stated. Virtual programs like ALX offer affordable training—often free or costing as little as five dollars—making them accessible to women everywhere, including the Volta Region.

Recognizing the gap in women’s participation in STEM fields, Node Women has collaborated with organizations such as the LoveAid Foundation, She Media, the Young Urban Women Movement (YUWM), and the HTU Computer Science Department, among others, to create more impact and foster opportunities for women.

Miss Amegboe also urged young women in the Volta Region to be proactive in seeking growth opportunities, such as seminars, boot camps, and conferences, which are now readily available. She encouraged them to attend these events, as even casual participation can lead to valuable learning experiences and access to networks and opportunities.

In her final remarks, she called on young women to step out of their comfort zones. “Even if you think you know everything, attending an event might expose you to that one thing you didn’t know,” she noted. By embracing these opportunities, women in the Volta Region can advance their journeys in STEAM fields and help bridge the gender gap in technology and innovation.