From the quiet corridors of academia to the grand halls of political power, Her Excellency Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has carved a path that is as inspiring as it is historic. As Ghana’s first female Vice President, she hasn’t just shattered glass ceilings—she’s raised the roof for a new generation of women ready to lead.
Her story is one of boldness, brilliance, and unwavering belief in the power of education and equality. In this piece, we journey through her life—from the classroom to the national stage—uncovering how one woman’s determination is transforming a nation.
Humble Roots, Bold Dreams.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was born on November 22, 1951 in Cape Coast. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for learning that would shape her future. She attended the Anglican Girls’ School in Koforidua and the Aburi Presby Girls’ School before completing her secondary education at Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast from 1964 to 1971.
A Trailblazer in Academia
Professor Opoku-Agyemang made history by becoming the university’s first female Vice Chancellor after serving as head of the Department of English, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Warden of Adehye Hall. She also served as the Founding Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and since 1997, she has acted as the Academic Director of the School for International Training, focusing on the History and Cultures of the African Diaspora.
A Global Voice
Her brilliance has earned international recognition. In 2007, she was invited to speak at the United Nations Headquarters in New York for the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery—an honor reserved for only five scholars worldwide.
Two years later, she was elected to UNESCO’s executive board as Ghana’s representative. And in 2018, she added another milestone to her resume—becoming Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, Zimbabwe.
Scholar. Advocate. Changemaker.
Beyond her accomplishments and titles, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is also an accomplished author and scholar, focusing her research on Ghanaian literature, oral literature in Africa, and communication skills within the African Diaspora. She has published extensively in academic journals and has presented at various conferences, including the UN event and the inaugural lecture for the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Making History Again
In 2020, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) made history by selecting her as the first female vice presidential candidate. Although the 2020 elections ended in a close loss, her party’s victory in 2024 led to Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang being sworn in as Ghana’s first female vice president. Her tenure has thus far been defined by a commitment to education, gender equality, and national progress.
An Inspiration to All
Naana Jane’s journey reminds us that no dream is too big and no barrier too strong. From her days in the classroom to the top tiers of government, she has shown what is possible when women are empowered to lead.
Her legacy is still in the making—and for every girl in Ghana and across the world who dares to dream, she stands as living proof that yes, you can.