The Republic of Ghana is a coastal country in West Africa with a population of more than 35 million. Currently, Ghana’s adult literacy rate is 76% and the literacy rate in adult women is even lower at 65%. This percentage is stark compared to countries such as Norway, which boasts a 100% adult literacy rate. While Ghana has seen immense progress in education over the past decades, the literacy rate for women is still much lower than in other parts of the world. Ghana also struggles with 21.9% of its population living in poverty, with 38% of that demographic having little to no education.

Women’s Education in Ghana

Women’s education in Ghana is a powerful tool for reducing poverty, improving family health and driving national economic growth. Key benefits include economic empowerment, better community health and greater social equality. Melaniece Nicole Bardley explains barriers to women’s education in Ghana, noting that despite females outnumbering males in the country, fewer girls than boys are enrolled in school, and those who are enrolled tend to perform at a lower standard. Bardley points to poverty, traditional and cultural beliefs, and gender roles as key factors that have “stood in the way of Ghanaian females’ access to education.” High levels of poverty and cultural expectations block many girls from accessing the same educational opportunities as boys. Promoting women’s education in Ghana would secure better jobs and earn higher incomes, which directly help lift their families out of poverty. When women participate in the formal workforce and start businesses, they strengthen the national economy.

Women in STEM Ghana Girls’ Camp

Launched in 2018, Women in STEM (WiSTEM) Ghana Girls’ Camp aims to create equal opportunities for all girls and boost their interest in STEM education. This camp provides opportunities for young girls to experience hands-on learning and participate in career development, critical thinking and other important mentorships to boost their skills. These education changes can also promote health outcomes for entire households. Literate mothers in Ghana understand nutrition, disease prevention and the importance of medical care for their children. This can lower child mortality and help women make informed decisions for themselves and their future families.

Progress and Challenges

Ghana has made good progress in primary school enrollment, but gaps remain at high school and university levels, especially in rural areas and northern regions. Poverty, long travel distances to schools and traditional social norms still block some girls from finishing their studies. Programs run by the government and groups like WiSTEM work to fix school infrastructure, supply menstrual hygiene support and keep girls in classrooms.

– Sadie Lopez

Sadie is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

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