GCTU has hosted a significant student forum on Women, Peace and Security on March 12, 2025, in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
The event, organized in collaboration with the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP), the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) and the Women’s Commission of GCTU, was aimed at raising awareness of gender-inclusive security strategies and empowering young people, particularly women, to play an active role in peace initiatives within their communities.
Held under the theme “Empowering Young Women: Accelerating Action for the Women, Peace and Security Agenda in West Africa,” the forum highlighted the critical roles of women in conflict resolution, policymaking and leadership in peace processes.
The forum featured a series of insightful presentations and interactive discussions, led by experts in gender studies, peacebuilding and media space, who provided valuable perspectives on advancing women’s inclusion in security and governance.
The Regional Coordinator for Peace and Security at (WANEP), Madam Josiane Marie Sombo, stated that “without peace, there is no future.” Madam Sombo, reaffirmed WANEP’s commitment to promoting gender equality and recognizing the resilience of women and girls across West Africa.
Again, in her address, Madam Sombo highlighted the crucial role of young people in conflict resolution, citing the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2250 which acknowledges youth as key agents in peacebuilding efforts. She stressed that with young people comprising 60% of the population in West Africa, they are not just the leaders of tomorrow but also the change-makers of today. However, she noted that many, particularly young women remain excluded from decision-making processes, increasing their vulnerability in conflict situations.
“We are committed to breaking down barriers that hinder youth participation in governance and peace processes,” she stated. “By investing in their education, economic opportunities and leadership, we can create a more inclusive and peaceful society.”
She further urged young people to take an active role in preserving peace within their communities and countries, emphasizing that peacebuilding is a collective responsibility.
The Executive Director of the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) and Convener of the Working Group on Women, Youth in Peace and Security Ghana, Mrs. Theodora Williams Anti, called for continuous recognition of women’s contributions beyond International Women’s Day.
She welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for their support. Mrs. Williams Anti emphasized the importance of celebrating women’s achievements not only as homemakers but also as key contributors to national development.
She further mentioned that acknowledging women’s efforts throughout the year would help amplify their role in shaping societies and promoting peace.
In addition, there was a panel discussion from speakers who shared their knowledge and experiences in their various leadership roles as women.
The event ended with a Mentoring Session by Dr. Ayo Ayoola-Amaale, who gave participants an insight into what a mentor and mentee’s relationship entails.
She emphasized the need for mentees to be respectful and humble in order to get the best of everything from their mentors.
In her conclusion, she stated that “you can have all the knowledge in the world but if you don’t have wisdom you have nothing.”
Notable speakers included Gender Policy Advisor to the CDS of Ghana Armed Forces, Group Captain Theodora Agornyo, Director of Public Engagement, Parliament of Ghana, Supt. Effia Tenge (Rtd), Head of Gender Unit, Ghana Immigration Service, Chief Supt. Evelyn Danquah Kottoh and Ms. Rebecca Ekpe, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation.
The event served as a platform for empowering young women, fostering dialogue on peace and security and inspiring students to take an active role in shaping a more inclusive and peaceful society.
