Central University marks International Women’s Day with call for women to ‘Give to Gain’

By Desmond MASOPEH

Students and staff of Central University gathered at the institution’s Abossey Okai campus in Accra on Thursday, March 5, 2026, to commemorate International Women’s Day with a call on women to embrace generosity, mentorship and leadership as tools for personal and national development.

The event, held under the theme “Give to Gain,” brought together young female students and experienced professionals to reflect on the contributions of women to society while encouraging the next generation to pursue excellence and support one another.

Delivering the welcome address, the Registrar of the university said the celebration of International Women’s Day was not only about recognizing the achievements of women but also about promoting a diverse and inclusive world.

According to the Registrar, the event created an opportunity for students to interact with accomplished professionals whose journeys could inspire them to pursue their aspirations.

“This opportunity provides a platform for young students to come into contact with industry professionals and may their journeys motivate you,” the Registrar said.

The Registrar noted that progress towards gender equality required collective commitment and continuous efforts to create opportunities for the next generation.

The Registrar further emphasized that the university remained committed to nurturing students to become transformational leaders who would contribute positively to society.

“At Central University, we help students reach their full potential by nurturing virtuous and transformational individuals who will influence society positively both in intellect and character,” the Registrar said.

The Registrar added that the gathering served as a meaningful platform for mentorship where experienced professionals could share their journeys with young women.

“This is a meaningful platform for mentorship which serves as a meeting place for experienced professionals and young women, listening to their stories and allowing their journeys to inspire you,” the Registrar stated.

Chairperson of the event, Joyce Rosalind Aryee, who is also the leader of Salt and Light Ministries and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Central University College, delivered the keynote address and urged women to embrace the power of giving as a pathway to true success.

“People say the sky is the limit, but I say beyond the sky is the limit, which means there is no limit,” Rev. Aryee said.

She explained that the theme “Give to Gain” might appear contradictory in a world where success is often associated with accumulation and competition.

“In the world we live in, we are often told that to gain is to accumulate and hold tightly to what we have or to climb over others,” she said.

However, she stressed that there was great value in giving, adding that generosity and service were powerful principles of leadership.

“Leadership should be understood as the power of generosity, the strength of compassion and the quiet and profound influence of service,” she said.

Rev. Aryee said when individuals give their time, wisdom and support to others, the impact extends far beyond personal gain.

“When a mother gives her time, she gains in her legacy. When a woman in business gives her mentorship, she gains a stronger industry. When we give our integrity, we gain a reputation that gold cannot buy,” she said.

She added that encouraging others, especially those who feel unseen, could ignite confidence that might change the course of their lives.

“In truth, the most powerful form of gain often begins with the act of giving,” she said.

Rev. Aryee also highlighted the contributions of women throughout history, noting that women continue to shape families, institutions and nations through their courage and leadership.

“Women give their insights to institutions, their creativity to innovation and their courage to leadership,” she said.

According to her, women who understand their value and calling become powerful agents of transformation in society.

“The power of a woman who understands her value and calling is a force that transforms homes, communities and nations,” she added.

Rev. Aryee encouraged young female students present at the event to see their journey not only as a pursuit of personal success but also as an opportunity to create pathways for others.

“To our young women here, your journey is not only about what you achieve for yourself but also what you make possible for others,” she said.

She also acknowledged the importance of male support in advancing gender equality, noting that women’s empowerment was a collective responsibility.

“The empowerment of women is not a woman’s issue; it is a human issue, a societal issue and a developmental issue,” she said.

Rev. Aryee concluded by urging participants to adopt a spirit of generosity, noting that giving was not a loss but an investment that yields lasting rewards.

“I hope we leave here with the understanding that giving is not a loss but an investment,” she said.

The event served as both a celebration and a moment of reflection, with participants encouraged to build networks, support one another and use their talents to positively influence society.

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