STEM

Ghana has several climate change initiatives focused on renewable energy, reducing deforestation, clean cooking adoption,   low-carbon power generation, and climate resilience building. The country’s efforts towards a fair energy transition are directed by three key policy documents – its updated Nationality Determined Contributions for 202-2030, commitments from Conference of Parties agreement, and the newly released National Energy Transition Framework. These administrative guides outlines Ghana’s strategies for tackling climate change through sustainable and inclusive development in the energy sector.. At the national stakeholders dialogue convened at the Alisa Hotel in Accra on Wednesday, May 29, experts emphasized that the transition must deliver equitable outcomes for all Ghanaians. “As we transition away from a fossil fuel-dependent economy to a green economy, our contribution to climate change and its effects will be minimized” said Dr. Steve Manteaw, co-chair of the Ghana Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative. “More importantly, we must ensure all regions and societies fairly benefit from this transition” he added. The dialogue, organized by Climate Strategies and STEMinist Foundation, aimed to facilitate conversations around centering workers in the transition towards a regenerative economy and enhance understanding of stakeholders’ perspectives, interest and contributions. Harnessing the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) just Transition Work Programme could also help achieve equitable outcomes, according to Nerissa Anku of Global Greengrants Fund who hosted the event. According to Dr. Manteaw, a just transition approach will be paramount given “the fact that a time will come when markets may no longer exist for oil…..if the whole world is moving away from fossil fuels” The event brought together experts from government, civil society and private sector. “The stakeholders’ input will be sent to the UNFCCC through Climate Strategies. It will be added to the UNFCCC’s just Transition Work Programme to be reviewed at COP 29 in Azerbaijan,” said Nerrisa Anku. More on Ghana’s Just Transition To achieve its NDCs over the next decade, the country has developed 19 policy actions across 10 priority areas which focus on establishing emissions reduction targets, creating green jobs, improving air quality, and benefiting youth and women. The policies incorporate 13 adaptations measures and 34 mitigation programs Their implementation from 2020 to 2030 is estimated to require total investments between $9.3 to $15.5 billion. Ghana’s National Energy Transition Framework (NETF) presents a comprehensive plan to attain net zero carbon emissions from energy use by 2060 which builds upon earlier targets set for 2070, demonstrating Ghana’s heightened climate ambition. it emphasized the need to engage international support and investors to drive sustainable development goals and job opportunities within Ghana’s economy. Coordinated efforts from government, the private sector, civil society, and global partners are said to be crucial to effectively surmounting decarbonization barriers. The country has also endorsed various agreements under the Conference of Parties (COP), including the United Arab Emirates’ Just Transition Work Programme. This initiative aims to facilitate equitable transitions to low-carbon, resilient futures that reduce inequalities within and between nations. Reported by Isaac Donkor Distinguished

In Ghana, women only hold 25% of all STEM jobs and girls in Ghana are significantly less likely to pursue STEM-related subjects than boys. This is due to socio-cultural barriers that have impacted their interest in science and technology. The rationale is to encourage young ladies to aspire and reach greater heights in careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) by countering societal stereotypes regarding women in STEM careers. This Campaign targets Ladies in Junior high (12 -15 years), Senior High schools (16-18 years) and tertiary students (18 -22 years) in Ghana. Component Focus Tactics Engagement Plan Targets In STEM, Women Lead Breaking gender-related Stereotypespromoting women’s leadership and achievements in STEM fields Showcase successful women in STEM through profiles and success stories. Collaborate with women leaders in STEM for mentorship. Organize panel discussions and webinars featuring women in STEM Fact Sheets Engage girls and young women aspiring to enter STEM fields. Collaborate with schools to introduce mentorship programs. Share stories and content about women leaders in STEM M Girls aspiring to enter STEM field Age 17-22 years Parents Schools General Public STEM FESTIVALS Organizing events and short programs that celebrate and promote STEM disciplines. STEM Tool kits Create interactive STEM exhibits and workshops for hands-on learning. Invite experts and professionals to speak at these events. Boot Camps Quizzes Social media, local media, and schools. Provide resources and materials for educators to use in classrooms Girls 12 – 17 yearsTeachersGeneral Public STEM works after SCHOOL Demonstrate the relevance of STEM in career choices and opportunities Career guidance and counseling in schools. Establish and support existing STEM clubs Mentorship Program School ClubsConnect students with mentors through school-based initiatives Girls  12 – 22 yearsSchool administrators. STEM professionals and mentors STEM and Sustainable Development Showcase the importance of STEM in addressing sustainable development challenges Host online/ physical workshops and debates Showcase projects and innovations Inter Schools Competitions YouTube Facebook Live Educators Engage with environmental and sustainability organizations Girls 17-22 years Schools General Public           This campaign aims to empower and inspire young girls and women in Ghana to pursue STEM careers by addressing societal stereotypes and providing them with the necessary skills and support.