The Women in Chemistry Network (WICN), a global organisation of women in the chemical sciences, has launched two flagship initiatives to promote interests in the physical science discipline in Ghana.
The strategic projects are the Women in Chemical Sciences Mentorship Programme (WICSMEP) and Women in Chemistry Network, Male Champions (WICNMC).
The role of mentorship in advancing women’s careers in the chemical sciences took center stage at a recent gathering of academics, researchers, and tertiary students as well as students from senior high schools in the Ashanti region.
Founder of the netwrok, Prof. Marian Asantewah Nkansah, stressed that women scientists continue to play a vital role in shaping research, innovation, and national development.
She underscored the need for platforms that create opportunities, build networks, and support the next generation of women in science.
According to her, mentorship is not just about guidance, but also about inspiring confidence, sharing experiences, and opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Delivering the keynote address by Prof. Ibok N. Oduro, elaborated on the theme, “Mentorship: A Catalyst for Growth and Advancement for Women in Chemical Sciences.”
Drawing from her expertise in Chemistry, she used the analogy of a catalyst in chemical reactions to explain the role of mentors.
Just as a catalyst speeds up reactions without being consumed, she noted, mentors help accelerate the growth of their mentees while continuing on their own paths.
Prof. Oduro also emphasized that there is no single pathway to success.
“In chemistry, reactions can follow different routes to achieve the same product. In the same way, careers in science can take diverse paths, but with the right mentorship, women can reach their goals faster and with greater confidence,” she explained.
Her message, reinforced by Prof. Nkansah’s call for stronger support systems, resonated deeply with participants—especially young female scientists.
A total of six (6) Male Champions, eleven (11) Mentors and eleven (11) Mentees were inaugurated to kickstart the phase -1 of the programme.
The two (2) new logos representing each of the initiatives were also launched at the event.
The event closed with a shared commitment to building mentorship structures that will not only empower women in chemical sciences but also strengthen the scientific community at large.