KNUST Hosts FemSTEM Africa 2026 to Boost Women in Health Innovation

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has hosted the first-ever FemSTEM Africa 2026 conference. This event seeks to build the next generation of women leaders in health innovation and entrepreneurship. It brought together over 300 female students from STEM high schools. University students and emerging entrepreneurs also attended. The conference was held in partnership with the Africa Health Collaborative (AHC).

The Mastercard Foundation also supported this initiative. Its theme was “From Vision to Venture: Women Leading Health Innovation". Professor Ellis Owusu Dabo, Principal Investigator at AHC KNUST, explained the conference goal. It aims to expose young women to entrepreneurship early. This includes innovation and leadership chances. Women are vital in the health workforce. Yet, they are fewer in health innovation leadership. They are also underrepresented as founders and investors.

Professor Owusu Dabo said women offer unique views. Their ideas can solve health problems. More women in innovation will bring new solutions. These can improve lives. They can also strengthen health systems. He urged participants to see challenges as chances. They should develop curiosity and digital skills. Seeking mentorship is also important. He stressed STEM fields for solving real problems.

Dr. Penina Lam, Head of the AHC Secretariat, spoke about entrepreneurship's power. She is also Senior Director at the University of Toronto. She encouraged bold pursuit of ideas. Even small ideas can be life-changing. She advised testing and refining ventures. Failure offers valuable lessons. She told students to observe their surroundings. Many innovations come from everyday life.

Professor Mrs. Ibok Oduro from KNUST's Food Science Department also spoke. She called for a change in perception. Women can and should be in STEM. Science needs curiosity and creativity. Problem-solving is key. She told students they are capable scientists. They can drive meaningful change. Science is about observation, questioning, and solutions. She challenged stereotypes about STEM being male-dominated.

Professor Oduro stated, “The only limits in our lives are those we impose on ourselves. STEM is our field, not their field." She added that they are architects of this world. Collaboration is crucial for innovation. She advised building diverse teams. Strategic partnerships are also vital. Complex health challenges need system-based solutions. The AHC's mentorship is key. It supports innovators from idea to implementation. This bridges the gap between vision and venture.

Participants attended a panel discussion. It featured successful women entrepreneurs. They shared their experiences and lessons. Ms. Mary Asante-Asamoah of Barbex Africa Projects Limited was a speaker. Mrs. Joyce Owusu-Dabo, CEO of Sinapi Aba Trust, also spoke. Dr. Bhavana Singh, Chief Medical Officer at KNUST Hospital, joined them. They encouraged resilience and perseverance.