By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY
Ladies in Mining and Allied Professions (LIMAP) Ghana, Gold Fields Ghana Foundation and the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) have joined forces in celebrating the International Women’s Day (IWD) at Tarkwa in the Western Region.
Held on the theme ‘Accelerate Action: Personal and Collective Responsibility’, it aimed to promote gender equality and inclusivity.
Prof. Grace Ofori-Sarpong, founder of Ladies in Mining and Allied Professions (LIMAP) Ghana, speaking at the event, called on the youth to remain hopeful and seize the opportunities of the modern era, noting that the future holds immense potential for them.
She reflected on the transformative impact of technology and the need for collective effort to overcome challenges.
“When I was younger, there were no mobile phones or social media. Communication was done through letters, which took days or even weeks to reach the recipient. A simple question could take a month to get a response,” she said.
She continued: “Today we have mobile phones and social media which have revolutionised communication, but also come with their own challenges. Despite these challenges the opportunities available to the youth today are immense”.
“Use the mobile phone to add value to yourself by researching on topics that will help in you academics and chosen fields than spending so much time on TikTok, Snapchat; which sometimes distract your attention”, she advised.
Prof. Ofori-Sarpong emphasised the importance of women supporting one another to achieve their goals.
Professor Michael Affam, Dean at the Office of Research, Innovation and Consultancy (ORIC) at UMaT, underscored the importance of celebrating women as unique and vital contributors to society. “Our purpose today is to celebrate women, who are the vast embodiment of creation and who excel in everything they do,” he said.
Prof. Affam noted that the theme ‘Accelerate Action: Personal and Collective Responsibility’, was particularly relevant in the quest for a future where all people are treated equally.
“The slogan ‘Affirmative Action’ implores us to make progress on behalf of women. Women are not asking for too much; they are simply asking for their fair share,” he said.
He called for a united front to achieve gender equality and ensure that women are not relegated to the background. “Today is a day to recognise the extraordinary acts of women worldwide and to promote gender equality, especially in our part of the world. We must bring attention to the unique qualities of women and ensure their inclusion in all spheres of life,” Prof. Affam added.
Mrs. Catherine Kupool Kuutor, President of LIMAP and General Manager of Gold Fields Ghana- Tarkwa Mine, emphasised the importance of collective progress and personal growth for women.
“Our destiny as women has been one of personal growth and collective progress. It is through our united efforts that we can continue to challenge the status quo and break down barriers,” she said.
She stressed that accelerating action requires concrete steps, mutual support and a shared vision of equality.
“International Women’s Day has been celebrated worldwide since 1977, and it serves as a memorial event to reflect on our progress and renew our commitment to achieving gender equality,” Mrs. Kuuto added.
A unified call for a brighter future
The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, mentorship and empowerment in achieving gender equality and creating a brighter future for the next generation.
Prof. Ofori-Sarpong, Prof. Affam and Mrs. Kuutor all emphasised the need for women to support one another, challenge societal norms and inspire the youth to reach their full potential.
As LIMAP continues to shine ahead and transform its generation, the message from the event was clear: the future is indeed brighter, but it requires collective effort, determination and a commitment to leaving no one behind.
About LIMAP
Founded nine years ago, LIMAP has been dedicated to empowering women in mining and allied professions in Ghana.
With the slogan ‘Shining Ahead and Transforming Our Generation’, the association focuses on motivating, encouraging and building the capacities of its members to excel in their fields.
“We aim to leave indelible marks wherever we find ourselves. By doing so, we demonstrate confidence and serve as role models and mentors for the younger generation,” Prof. Ofori-Sarpong explained.
She also highlighted LIMAP’s outreach to basic schools, where members engage with young students to inspire them early in life. “We go to basic schools to catch them young, talk to them and motivate them to see the brighter future ahead. This is the essence of LIMAP,” she said.
