UTAG UBIDS SRC Mark International Women’s Day with Call to Invest in Women for Societal Gains

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Business and Integrated Development Studies Branch, in collaboration with the Students Representative Council (SRC), has marked this year’s International Women’s Day with a strong call for increased investment in women’s empowerment to accelerate societal development.

The event, held under the theme “Give to Gain,” brought together university leadership, students, and gender advocates to highlight the importance of supporting women through opportunities, mentorship, and equitable policies.

Speaking at the event, the UTAG Women’s Executive Officer for the UBIDS Branch, Dr. Florence Avogo, emphasized that investing in women produces far-reaching benefits that extend beyond the individual to families, communities, and the nation at large.

According to her, providing women with access to resources, opportunities, and support systems enables them to achieve their full potential, creating a ripple effect across society.

“When these resources, opportunities and time are made available to women, the multiplier effect is great. It does not only benefit the individual woman, but it also trickles down to the household, the community and the nation,” she said.

Dr. Avogo noted that women play a vital role in shaping society, particularly through nurturing families and passing on values, knowledge, and moral guidance to the next generation. She explained that the “Give to Gain” theme underscores the need for society to intentionally invest in women by offering respect, mentorship, protection, visibility, and access to opportunities.

“Giving can take many forms—respect, knowledge, mentorship, safety, and even a voice to the voiceless,” she stated, adding that workplaces, institutions, and communities must collectively support women’s advancement.

Dr. Avogo also urged women themselves to actively contribute to the process of empowerment rather than remaining passive beneficiaries.

“As women, we are not just to sit and receive. We also have to give our time and support in our homes, at our workplaces, and among our peers,” she added.

In his address, the UTAG President for the UBIDS Branch, Godwin Achana, stressed the need to strengthen women’s participation in leadership, employment, and decision-making by investing in their skills development.

He indicated that achieving meaningful gender inclusion requires deliberate support systems, including financial assistance, access to credit, and resources that enable women to establish and grow businesses.

“If we want substantial inclusion of women, we must invest in skills development and support women’s economic opportunities through access to finance and other resources,” he said.

Mr. Achana further highlighted the importance of mentorship and community support in empowering young women, noting that programs such as the International Women’s Day event provide essential guidance for female students. He also called for stronger policies and institutional frameworks to safeguard women’s rights and ensure equal opportunities.

“The government, institutions and society in general must actively get involved because advocacy for gender equality is a shared responsibility,” he said. According to him, the theme “Give to Gain” reflects the broader societal benefits of promoting gender equality.

“It is not only a moral responsibility, but also a pathway to inclusive and sustainable development,” he added.

The event featured discussions and mentorship sessions aimed at encouraging young women to pursue leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence while fostering a culture of mutual support within the university community.