IWD 2024: Dr. Asomaning calls for investment in strategies for women empowerment

A gender advocate and a renowned motivational speaker, Dr. Abena Asomaning has called for investment in strategies that empower women, promote inclusivity, and foster collaboration.

This, she said, will accelerate progress in working women and strengthen the role of trade unions including building capacity through training programs, promoting women into leadership positions, and influencing policy decisions.

Speaking to the National Women’s Association of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on the theme “Count Her In: Invest in Working Women, Accelerate Progress: The Role of Trades Union”, to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day (ISD) in Accra, Dr. Asomaning observed that fostering partnerships between trade unions, employers, and governments is essential for driving systemic change.

By collaborating on initiatives such as gender audits, workplace diversity programs, and mentorship schemes, stakeholders can create inclusive work environments where women can thrive and contribute fully to economic growth,” she stated.

Using the Federation of American Trade Unions’s “Women’s Leadership Academy” to inspire the women, Dr. Asomaning said the Academy has empowered countless women to step into leadership positions within trade unions, advocating for policies that champion gender equality.

She also added that the “Equal Pay Campaign” spearheaded by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has shed light on the gender pay gap and spurred action to tackle this issue on both national and international fronts”.

This kind of progress isn’t limited to other countries; it’s achievable right here in Ghana too. There are numerous leadership and mentorship programs available that unions can support and sponsor, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future,” she emphasized.

Dr. Asomaning, who is also a lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and the MD of Africa Environmental Sanitation Consult, was of the view that, In addition to external support from trade unions and other stakeholders, women also need to empower themselves to thrive in the workplace.

We as women should prioritize education and lifelong learning. Whether it’s completing formal schooling or pursuing vocational training, continuous learning enhances skills and opens up opportunities for career advancement,” she emphasized.

She also encouraged women to build strong personal brands both online and offline to help them stand out in the workplace.

Being technologically savvy is essential in today’s digital age. Women should familiarize themselves with basic computer skills, software programs, and online communication tools to stay competitive in the job market,” Dr. Asomaning advised.

Acknowledging that women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles across various industries, curbing their opportunities for career advancement and decision-making power, Dr. Asomaning challenged women to deliberately avail themselves and take up leadership roles in a bid to close the gender equality gap.

As women, we have what it takes to achieve gender equality. We need to close the 33% gap in equality. We must use every opportunity to succeed. Let’s unite and take our place in decision-making – if we are not part of the decision-making process, the decisions will be made for us anyway. Gender equality is possible if we act now she challenged the women.

International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

This year’s IWD theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion’ underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality and encourages everyone to recognise the unique perspectives and contributions of women.