UGBS Department of Accounting Hosts International Women’s Day Celebration in Collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank and Career Pathways Series
The Department of Accounting at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank Ghana, has held an event to commemorate International Women’s Day under the Career Pathways Series, creating a platform for young women to engage in candid conversations about personal growth, career development, and life challenges. The programme was themed Give to Gain: Beyond Brilliance and Beauty – Unscripted Real Conversations in a Ladies Circle and it happened on 5th March 2026 at the R. S. Amegashie Auditorium on the UGBS main campus. Sponsored by Standard Chartered Bank, the event brought together industry professionals, faculty members, and students to discuss issues affecting young women and to inspire them to pursue purposeful and fulfilling lives.
Delivering the purpose of the gathering, Mrs. Naa Adorkor Codjoe, a Chartered Accountant at Standard Chartered Bank Ghana and an alumna of UGBS, emphasised that life should not be measured solely by academic certificates but by the intentional choices individuals make. She encouraged young women to observe the world around them and live purposefully, noting that intentional living helps people avoid overlooking opportunities and lessons in life. She explained that the programme was designed to create a safe space where young women could openly discuss personal and social challenges. According to her, life struggles should not push young people into harmful or unacceptable behaviours. She urged students to trust the process of growth and remain confident in their journey.
The event opened with four interactive sessions facilitated by team members from Standard Chartered Bank Ghana. The sessions addressed challenges women often encounter in their personal and professional journeys, as well as broader issues affecting young adults, including social life, academic pressures, and health concerns. A panel discussion continued, featuring Ms. Naa Adorkor Codjoe, Ms. Anita Amankwa Quaye- Head of Cash Management (West Africa) at Standard Chartered Bank Ghana, Ms. Selasi Gattogo- Head of Supply Chain Management at Standard Chartered Bank Ghana, Dr. Rita Amoah Bekoe- Senior Lecturer in the Department of Accounting at UGBS, and Dr. Hadija N. Nyante- Lecturer in the Department of Accounting at UGBS. The session was moderated by Prof. Sheena Lovia Boateng- Associate Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship at UGBS.
Some Students at the Event
Sharing her personal experiences, Ms. Naa Adorkor Codjoe spoke about expectations she had while growing up and the realities that life sometimes presents. She addressed emotional challenges such as heartbreak, advising students to understand that not every relationship leads to marriage. She encouraged them to develop self-love, appreciate their self-worth, and avoid harming themselves emotionally when relationships do not work out. Ms. Anita Amankwa Quaye, urged young women to create supportive networks among themselves. She noted that many young people struggle with issues they are afraid to share, which can lead to serious consequences. She encouraged students to be supportive of one another and avoid attitudes that push others away. She further stressed the importance of self-development, encouraging students to unlearn negative habits, relearn positive behaviours, and continuously acquire knowledge that will enable them to add value to their lives and careers.
Dr. Rita Amoah Bekoe advised students to go beyond academic work and invest time in personal growth and networking. She encouraged them to attend programmes that expose them to new ideas and connections that could positively influence their future. She also cautioned students against assuming responsibilities meant for married couples while in school, urging them instead to focus on their personal development. Dr. Bekoe further advised students to avoid abusive relationships, build self-confidence, celebrate small achievements, and present themselves appropriately through their dressing and conduct. Ms. Selasi Gattogo, highlighted the importance of planning and intentionality in shaping one’s life and career. She encouraged students to remain flexible and open-minded while pursuing their goals. She also advised them to use social media responsibly, noting that digital footprints can affect future opportunities. According to her, students must be mindful of their words and actions, set boundaries to avoid exploitation or abuse, and cultivate positive relationships with others.
Dr. Hadija N. Nyante, spoke on the importance of building a strong personal brand while still in school. She encouraged students to develop their curriculum vitae and work portfolios early and to reflect on how they would like to be remembered. She also urged them to adopt a growth mindset, learn new skills, take advantage of the many opportunities available on campus, and present themselves professionally through appropriate dressing and behaviour. Prof. Sheena Lovia Boateng noted that female faculty members at UGBS are always available to support young women in their growth and development. She encouraged them to reach out whenever they face pressing issues or challenges to avoid being hurt or making wrong decisions. According to her, many of the challenges women encounter can be better addressed collectively rather than individually, as women supporting one another increases their chances of rising together to the top.
In his closing remarks, the Head of the Department of Accounting, Prof. Godfred Matthew Yaw Owusu, encouraged students to actively participate in programmes that contribute to their growth and development. He noted that in today’s world, success is not only about who one knows but also about who knows them. He therefore urged students to take advantage of networking opportunities at such events, as these encounters could shape their future careers or even influence opportunities in the workplace. He expressed appreciation to the speakers and participants for contributing to the success of the programme and encouraged students to continue engaging in initiatives that broaden their perspectives beyond the classroom.
Group Picture Taken After the Event