Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang poised to become Ghana’s first female Vice President
ACCRA: In a historic turn of events, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is set to make history as Ghana’s first female Vice President following the concession of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama in the 2024 Presidential Election.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang served as Mahama’s running mate in the December 7, 2024 elections, marking her second appearance on a presidential ticket after partnering with him in the 2020 general elections.
Her selection was formally approved by the NDC’s National Executive Committee earlier this year, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in Ghanaian politics.
Distinguished academic career
Born on November 22, 1951, in Cape Coast, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang (née Jane Naana Sam) is a celebrated academic and politician. She made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a public university in Ghana, leading the University of Cape Coast from 2008 to 2012. She is also the current Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, based in Zimbabwe.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang holds a B.Ed. in English and French from the University of Cape Coast, a Diploma in Advanced Studies from the University of Dakar, and a master’s and doctorate from York University in Canada.
She also attended Anglican Girls’ Secondary School at Koforidua and Aburi Presby Girls’ School. She then had her secondary education at the Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast from 1964 to 1971.
Her academic contributions include a focus on literature, oral traditions, and issues in the African diaspora.
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Career of public service and leadership
As Minister of Education from 2013 to 2017, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang championed inclusivity in education, particularly through the Inclusive Education Policy of 2015. She has also been an advocate for women and girls, leveraging her platform to promote gender equality and access to education.
Her political journey has been marked by a commitment to integrity and issue-focused campaigning. Her influence was instrumental in bolstering NDC support in key regions, including the Central and Greater Accra regions.
Role model for generations
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s groundbreaking achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including honorary degrees and international recognition. She was awarded the Officer of the Order of the Volta for Academic Distinction in 2011 and has been celebrated as one of the 100 most influential women in Africa by Avance Media.
As she prepares to take office, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s historic ascension is seen as a victory for gender representation and inclusivity in Ghanaian politics.
Her journey reflects a lifetime of dedication to education, leadership, and service, inspiring a new generation of women leaders across the nation and continent.
