Vivo Energy Ghana held its 2026 ShePower Summit at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), attracting over 500 students, academics, and industry professionals.
Organised to mark International Women’s Day, the summit aimed to inspire more women to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Held at KNUST’s College of Engineering, the event featured mentorship sessions, panel discussions, and student exhibitions. Participants engaged with energy-sector professionals and explored opportunities and challenges for women in engineering.
Speaking at the summit, Christian Li, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, highlighted the company’s commitment to initiatives that connect students with industry and expand access to mentorship.
A major highlight was the launch of the NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge, designed to encourage students to develop innovative solutions to energy-related challenges in Ghana.
Prof. Kwaku Amaning Adjei, Dean of the Faculty of Civil and Geo-Engineering at KNUST, noted that the programme comes at a time of significant change in the global energy sector, including a shift towards more sustainable systems. He acknowledged that women remain underrepresented in engineering but said progress is gradually being made.
Prof. David Ato Quansah, Director of the Brew-Hammond Energy Centre, emphasized that access to energy is crucial for development and drew attention to gender disparities within the sector. Citing international data, he noted that women make up only about 20 percent of the global energy workforce.
Speaking on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, Anwel Sadat Ahmed, Municipal Chief Executive for Oforikrom, highlighted that programmes supporting women in STEM fields play a vital role in advancing national development.
Panel discussions at the summit explored challenges faced by female engineering students and highlighted the critical role of women in shaping innovative energy solutions. Students also showcased prototypes and ideas designed to tackle pressing energy challenges.
Following the event, Vivo Energy Ghana and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deepen collaboration between the university and industry. The agreement includes support for student-focused initiatives, including the ongoing innovation challenge, aimed at fostering creativity and practical solutions in the energy sector.