The GCTU Business Students’ Association, in partnership with the Defense for Children International Foundation and the United Bank for Africa, marked International Women’s Day on March 13, 2026, at the Florence Onny Auditorium.
Speaking at the event, the Head of the Department of Management Studies, Prof. Theresa Obuobisa-Darko, emphasized the theme: “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls.” She highlighted the importance of celebrating and advancing women’s rights, while setting a strong tone for equality, fairness and collective responsibility.
Prof. Obuobisa-Darko also shared the history and significance of the celebration. “Equality, fairness and collective responsibility require systemic reforms through advocacy, shared resources and inclusive leadership to create an environment that fosters a sense of belonging,” she noted. She encouraged participants to adopt equality and fairness as a way of life and to contribute meaningfully to societal change.
In her welcome address, the President of the Business Students’ Association, Ms. Juliet Maa Teki Mensah, expressed excitement about hosting the celebration and commended the association’s partners for their collaboration. She stressed the importance of creating platforms that amplify women’s voices and empower students to embrace equality. Ms. Mensah urged her colleagues to actively engage in discussions, learn from the speakers and carry forward values such as resilience, humility and professionalism.
The Programmes Manager for Defense for Children International, Ms. Faustina Osei Prempeh, began her presentation by referencing sections of the Constitution on human rights and the need to protect every individual. She highlighted harmful practices that discriminate against women and girls in Ghana. “When justice fails, it is the woman who pays the price,” she stated. She urged participants to make their voices heard and work collectively to challenge the status quo and support women’s empowerment.
Presenting on the topic “Overcoming Timidity, Building Resilience and Thriving,” the Head of Corporate Banking at UBA Ghana, Ms. Rita Mills-Robertson, described timidity as “the quiet voice inside you that whispers negativity, creating hesitation and low self-esteem.” She encouraged participants to believe in themselves, build confidence, take initiative, seek support and remain resilient through both challenges and successes.
The Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Emelia Amoako Asiedu, in her presentation on the topic “Unpacking Gender Stereotypes,” defined gender stereotypes as “preconceived ideas where males and females are arbitrarily assigned characteristics and roles determined and limited by sex.” She explained that such stereotypes influence judgments, expectations, behaviours and institutional policies. She urged participants to challenge discrimination and treat all genders with fairness and respect.
Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director of PINEBI Foundation, Ms. Freda Gbati, presented on “From Awareness to Action.” She introduced the A.C.T.I.O.N. framework: Amplifying women’s voices, Championing women-led businesses, Testing (challenging) harmful norms, Imparting and impacting through mentorship, Joining community action and Never stopping or settling. “History rarely remembers those who are merely aware; it remembers those who act, speak up and refuse to look away,” she remarked.
The roundtable session provided an opportunity for speakers to share their personal experiences and achievements, followed by an interactive question-and-answer session with participants.
In her closing remarks, Prof. Obuobisa-Darko encouraged women to believe in their worth and build resilience. She also called on men to support gender equality and help drive change. She urged all participants to serve as role models for future generations.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Vice President of the Business Students’ Association, Ms. Joyce Amesimeku, expressed gratitude to management, participants and partners, including the Defense for Children International Foundation and the United Bank for Africa (UBA Ghana), for their support.
The event concluded with the presentation of citations to outstanding women and men, including guest speakers from partner institutions, in recognition of their contributions and impact within and beyond the University.
