The Director-General of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), Professor Samuel Boakye Dampare, has called on institutions to foster an environment that encourages women to put up their best effort in order to obtain possibilities for advancement and influence.

According to Prof. Dampare, “when we support and invest in women, we strengthen families, institutions, and society as a whole.”

Prof. Dampare made this revelation during the GAEC Ladies Associations (GLA’s) recent International Women’s Day (IWD) and Handing-Over ceremony in Accra.

Sister Ladies’ associations and other guests attended the event, which had as its theme: ‘Giving to Gain: The Power of Women’s Voices in Shaping Society.’

Recognising the contributions of the GLA over the years, he said, “You have greatly improved staff welfare, encouraged unity, and strengthened the social fabric of this institution through your dedication and commitment.”

The Director-General once more praised the ladies for building a network of support that encourages staff members’ emotional health, professional development, and mentoring.

Prof. Dampare, who was also chairman for the occasion, said “Today’s ceremony is not just a formality, but a celebration of continuity, growth, and renewed commitment.”

“You have improved workplace morale, promoted departmental collaboration, and given women a platform to develop leadership skills and confidence,” he continued.

He said their impact had been equally spectacular through outreach programmes, health education projects, community support activities, and charitable engagements that have improved lives, raised awareness, and demonstrated the commission’s commitment to social responsibility.

He, therefore, asked the incoming executives to build on the strong foundation established and lead with integrity, inclusivity, and innovation while praising the outgoing executives for their outstanding leadership and committed service.

The special Guest of Honour, Mrs. Suweibatu Adam Esq., Chief Director of the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MEST), said empowering women was not optional; it’s essential.

“We create stronger institutions and a more resilient country when women are given the opportunity to lead, speak, and influence decisions.”

“For this reason, we continue to promote gender equity, capacity building, and inclusive participation across all sectors under our mandate,” she stated.

She praised GAEC women for their commitment to promoting harmony, career advancement, and social influence among women.

“Your efforts show that individual voices are amplified through collective action. I urge both outgoing and new executives to continue their dedication to teamwork, mentoring, and meaningful service as you transition leadership today,” she continued.

In addition to continuing to provide opportunities for women to flourish, speak, and lead with confidence, he challenged the incoming leadership to lead with vision, ethics, and inclusivity.

The keynote speaker, Professor Josephine Dzahene-Quarshie, Dean of the School of Languages and Linguistics at the University of Ghana, Legon, welcomed the commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD), which honours women’s contributions in the fields of science, politics, education, and the arts.

“It serves as a focal point for action against gender-based violence, inequality, and discrimination. And it’s still a call to action as much as a celebration because discrimination against women still exists,” she said.

Citing this year’s UNESCO theme: ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For all women and girls, she said “it reminds us that when rights are denied, inequalities deepen and tensions grow´ therefore “It is a call to address the root causes of injustice, strengthen protection frameworks, and support policies that respond to the real needs of women and girls.”

Professor Dzahene-Quarshie encouraged the women to make more of an impact because when women give, society not only advances but also gets its conscience and future.

Rev. Dr (Mrs) Eunice Agyarko-Mintah, President of GLA, urged the women to support the new executives so they can succeed.

By Spectator Reporter