Ghana has made history with the just-ended 2024 election, electing John Dramani Mahama as President and Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as the country’s first-ever female Vice President. This groundbreaking achievement of Ghana’s first female Vice president has sparked excitement and pride among Ghanaian women, who celebrate her as a symbol of progress and possibility.
A Trailblazing Career in Politics
Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s journey to becoming Ghana’s first female Vice President began with her selection as the running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in July 2020 for the December 2020 General Elections. This made her the first female running mate from any of the two major political parties in Ghana. Her nomination by John Dramani Mahama was widely applauded by women’s groups and activists, who saw it as a groundbreaking move for gender balance in Ghanaian politics.
Her campaign focused on hope and progress, appealing to Ghanaians to vote for change while pledging to champion youth-centered policies and sustainable development. With her calm demeanor and issue-focused messaging, she avoided engaging in political attacks, earning her widespread respect.
In 2024, the NDC National Executive Committee reaffirmed their confidence in her by endorsing her again as Mahama’s running mate. Their victory in the elections sealed her place in history as Ghana’s first female Vice President. She was sworn into power on the 7th of January, 2025, at the Blackstar Square by the Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
Who Is Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang?
Born on November 22, 1951, in Cape Coast, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang is a scholar, educator, and leader with an impressive track record. She attended Anglican Girls’ School in Koforidua, Aburi Presby Girls’ School, and Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast. Her academic journey led her to earn a Diploma in Advanced Studies in French from the University of Dakar, followed by master’s and doctorate degrees from York University in Canada in 1980 and 1986, respectively.
A Legacy in Academia
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s career began at the University of Cape Coast, where she became a distinguished educator and administrator. She held several leadership positions, including Head of the Department of English, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Founding Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research.
In 2008, she became the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast. Making her the first woman to hold that position at the university. Her leadership extended beyond academia, serving on notable boards such as the Centre for Democratic Governance (CDD-Ghana), the Africa Initiative in Canada, and the editorial board of the Harriet Tubman Series on the African Diaspora.
A Legacy of Leadership
Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has consistently broken barriers throughout her career. In March 2007, she was among five distinguished scholars selected to deliver presentations during the 200th Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. This moment underscored her global recognition as a thought leader in African history and education.
In October 2009, she was elected as Ghana’s representative to the executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), reflecting her commitment to advancing education and cultural development on the world stage.
Ahead of Ghana’s 2012 general elections, she made history again by moderating the presidential debate alongside Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, showcasing her ability to lead balanced and insightful national discussions.
Furthering her commitment to education, on October 26, 2018, she was appointed Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, located in Zimbabwe. This role highlights her passion for empowering women through education and fostering leadership across the continent.
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Her Role in Government
Between 2013 and 2017, Opoku-Agyemang served as Ghana’s Minister of Education under President John Mahama. Her tenure focused on inclusive policies, particularly empowering women and girls through education. Notably, she introduced the Inclusive Education Policy in 2015, ensuring access to education for children of all abilities.
A New Era for Ghana
Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s rise to the vice presidency represents more than a political victory. It’s a momentous leap for women’s representation in Ghana. Her journey, from academia to politics, demonstrates the power of perseverance and the importance of creating opportunities for women in leadership.
As Vice President, she promises to champion sustainable development, youth empowerment, and inclusivity, paving the way for a brighter future for all Ghanaians. Her achievement inspires women across the nation to aim high and pursue their dreams.
Ghana’s history has been rewritten, and Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang stands at the forefront of this transformation. She truly is a trailblazer worth celebrating. A big congratulations to her for being the first-ever female Vice President of the 4th Republic of Ghana.
