10 Facts You Didn’t Know About Ghana’s First Female Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang

In the annals of Ghana’s political history, few names shine as brightly as that of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. A revered academic, a groundbreaking leader, and an advocate for women’s empowerment, she made history by becoming Ghana’s first female Vice President. Her ascension to this high office was not just a victory for gender representation but also a testament to her unwavering commitment to education, social equity, and transformative leadership.

From humble beginnings in Cape Coast to standing on the global stage as a symbol of progress, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. While her remarkable achievements as an educator and public servant are well-documented, there are many intriguing facets of her life that remain lesser-known. These details not only illuminate the depth of her character but also underscore the perseverance, intelligence, and vision that have defined her career.

STYLEAFRIQUE™•com delves into ten fascinating facts about Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang—facts that reveal the woman behind the title and offer a deeper understanding of her extraordinary contributions to Ghana and the world.

1. First Female Vice-Chancellor of a Ghanaian University

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang made history in 2008 when she was appointed the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC). This achievement marked her as the first woman to occupy such a position in Ghana’s tertiary education sector, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.

2. A Stellar Academic Career

She holds a PhD in English Literature from York University in Canada and has a long-standing reputation as an accomplished academic. Her research and publications, particularly in African and postcolonial literature, have garnered international recognition.

3. Proponent of Education Reforms

During her tenure as Ghana’s Minister of Education (2013–2017), she implemented significant reforms, including the establishment of more community day senior high schools to improve access to education in underserved areas.

4. Champion of Women’s Empowerment

Professor Opoku-Agyemang is a passionate advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment. Her career reflects a consistent effort to inspire young girls and women to pursue leadership roles and education.

5. The First Woman on a Presidential Ticket

In 2020, she made history as the first female Vice Presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Her nomination represented a monumental step for women in Ghanaian politics.

6. Her Leadership Style is Widely Admired

Known for her calm demeanor and inclusive approach to leadership, she is celebrated for fostering collaboration and understanding among diverse groups of people, a quality she brought into both academia and politics.

7. International Recognition

Professor Opoku-Agyemang has received numerous awards and honors globally, including recognition for her contributions to education, literature, and leadership. She is also an honorary fellow of the American Biographical Institute.

8. A Devoted Advocate for Literacy

Throughout her career, she has consistently advocated for improved literacy in Ghana. She initiated projects aimed at enhancing reading and writing skills among children, especially in rural areas.

9. She’s a Proud Mother and Family-Oriented Leader

In addition to her professional achievements, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a mother of three. She often speaks about the importance of family and its role in shaping her values and vision.

10. A Legacy of Breaking Barriers

From academia to politics, her journey has been marked by firsts. She continues to inspire the next generation of leaders, especially women, to challenge societal norms and strive for excellence.