Professor Evelyn Sakeah has made history as the first female professor at CK Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS), a milestone that marks both personal achievement and a step forward for women in academia.
As the Head of the Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health at the School of Public Health, she is not only shaping the future of public health education but also mentoring the next generation of scholars. Reflecting on her journey, Professor Sakeah shares her experiences, challenges, and vision for a more inclusive academic landscape.
She highlighted her commitment to representing her community and mentoring the next generation of academics. As the first female professor at the university, she considers her achievement not just a personal milestone but also an opportunity to contribute to a more equitable academic future.
“As the first female professor, I feel a profound sense of honor and responsibility. I have the privilege of representing my community and the duty to mentor the next generation while contributing to a more equitable future in higher education,” she stated.
Speaking in an interview with A1 Radio, Professor Sakeah emphasized that her leadership is now centered on empowering others, especially emerging scholars, by offering guidance and sharing knowledge to help them achieve similar milestones.
According to her, the department has made significant strides, particularly in research and fostering collaborations with both national and international institutions, enhancing the quality and scope of their work. She stressed that research efforts are not only essential for academic progress but also for delivering evidence-based teaching, which enriches students’ learning experiences.
“We conduct extensive research and have begun collaborating with both national and international institutions, which has strengthened our teaching and research capacities. These are our key strengths,” she noted.
One of the hallmarks of her leadership, she said, is her dedication to inspiring others, particularly women in academia. Professor Sakeah explained that many aspiring female lecturers now view her achievement as proof that they, too, can reach similar heights. She actively encourages her colleagues to engage in research and other scholarly activities, emphasizing that attaining the rank of professor requires years of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice.
“Many are looking up to me. They see that the path is now open, especially lecturers aspiring to become professors,” she said. “I am working closely with them, encouraging them to engage in more research because this is not something achieved overnight. It requires dedication, sacrifice, and extensive scholarly work to reach this level.”
Professor Sakeah further reaffirmed her commitment to mentoring young people, particularly students, helping them make informed decisions about their futures. She believes that through guidance and coaching, young people will be better equipped to navigate their career paths and achieve their goals.
“For the youth, we continue to mentor and guide them. They are my primary focus because through mentoring and coaching, they will be able to make informed choices about their lives. We are working closely with them to ensure they reach their full potential,” she added.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
