The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced that Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang will once again be the running mate of former President John Dramani Mahama for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang previously served as Mahama’s running mate in the 2020 general elections.
Who is Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang?
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a prominent figure in Ghana’s academic and political spheres, known for her remarkable achievements and steadfast commitment to education, gender equality, and sustainable development.
Born on November 22, 1951, in Cape Coast, Ghana, she has made significant contributions in various fields of public service, academia, and governance, leaving a lasting impact in each domain.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s academic journey is a testament to her passion for education and scholarship. She obtained her Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in English and French from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana and later pursued her Master’s and Ph.D. in Literature from York University in Canada. Her career in academia flourished at the University of Cape Coast, where she not only imparted knowledge but also assumed transformative leadership roles. In 2008, she made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a Ghanaian university, a position that allowed her to advocate for quality education, research excellence, and gender equity within the university community and beyond.
Throughout her academic career, Professor Opoku-Agyemang played a pivotal role in initiating and implementing policies aimed at improving the educational landscape in Ghana. She championed various educational reforms and projects, advocating for accessible and inclusive education. Her efforts also focused on promoting literacy and encouraging girls to study science and mathematics, recognizing the transformative power of education in empowering individuals and societies.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s political journey began in July 2020 when she was selected as the running mate to John Mahama, the Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2020 Ghanaian general election. Her nomination was historic, as she became the first woman to be nominated for the vice-presidency by a major political party in Ghana. Although the NDC did not emerge victorious in the election, her candidacy marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s political history, highlighting the increasing recognition of women’s leadership in governance.
Beyond her academic and political endeavors, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is a passionate advocate for social issues, including women’s rights, children’s education, and environmental sustainability. She has actively participated in various conferences and platforms, both locally and internationally, where she has articulated her commitment to these causes. Her advocacy is driven by the belief that sustainable development can only be achieved through inclusive policies and practices that prioritize the well-being of all members of society.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang’s legacy is defined by her pioneering spirit, intellectual contributions, and ethical leadership. Her career reflects a deep-seated commitment to public service, with a focus on advancing educational excellence, advocating for gender equality, and contributing to Ghana’s sustainable development. As she continues to engage in public discourse and advocacy, her life’s work serves as an inspiration to many, especially women and young people who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
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