Women urged to rise beyond societal limitations

By Regina Benneh Sunyani (Bono), Nov. 05, GNA – Women have been encouraged to rise above societal limitations, discover their purpose and pursue their aspirations to achieve personal and professional fulfilment. Dr Benewaa Henneh, a Lecturer at the Department of Communication Studies of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), gave the advice at the closing session of the maiden Sunyani Women Summit (SWoS ’26) held in Sunyani.

The summit was organised by the Sunyani-based WENSAH Foundation, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting women’s development. Dr Henneh urged women not to be discouraged by life’s challenges or cultural stereotypes that often relegate them to the background. She noted that every woman possessed unique potential and should strive to develop herself and realise her dreams.

“We should not be discouraged as women, but rather remain focused to achieve our dreams and not to depend solely on men. Our destiny is not to marry, and we must not accept to be relegated,” Dr Henneh stated. Dr Henneh expressed concern that some women viewed marriage and childbearing as their ultimate achievement in life.

While acknowledging the importance of marriage, she stressed that it should not be regarded as the sole purpose of a woman’s existence. She therefore encouraged women to acquire properties, become successful entrepreneurs, actively participate in politics and aspire to leadership positions in various sectors of society.

Dr Henneh also emphasised the importance of education and self-improvement, noting that knowledge acquisition and continuous learning remained essential in today’s highly competitive world. She urged women to inculcate the principles of gender equality in their children from an early age.

“We must train our children to understand that men and women are equal,” she advised, noting that when children were brought up in that mindset, society would respect and give women equal opportunities. Dr Henneh further called for greater support and empowerment for women to assume leadership roles and own successful businesses.

According to her, empowering women would ultimately benefit the nation, as women bring unique perspectives, compassion and dedication to their responsibilities. Some participants described the summit as insightful and a wake-up call for women to take charge of their destinies and pursue opportunities for personal growth and development.

GNA Edited by Dennis Peprah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah Reporter: Regina Benneh