TELECEL Ghana has demonstrated its commitment to encouraging female participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) by sponsoring the annual academic prize to the best graduating female student in computer engineering at the University of Ghana.
At this year’s Vice Chancellor’s Academic Awards ceremony at the university’s Great Hall, the Scholarships and Academic Awards Committee announced Kathleen Nicole Brown as the winner of the Telecel Ghana Prize for the Best Graduating Female Student in Computer Engineering for the 2024/2025 academic year.
Ms Brown won the Telecel Ghana prize after completing a four-year rigorous academic programme that combines advanced study in the design and operation of software and hardware systems.
Another FESSP alumnus, Marie-Pearl Yaa Nono Akoto received a separate prize for the Best Student in Computer Science.
The FESSP programme is part of Telecel’s broader effort to help close the gender gap in technical education by reducing some of the barriers that discourage young women from pursuing engineering. Beyond tuition fees and tech support, FESSP connects awardees to female engineers in the business for mentorship and practical insights into career pathways, to build a stronger pipeline of female technical talent for Ghana’s workforce.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, in her welcome address, said the awards scheme has been expanded to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of deserving students in academic and co-curricular endeavours.
The Human Resource Director at Telecel Ghana, Rachael Appenteng, said the telecom operator views the award sponsorship as part of a long-term investment in talent development.
“We believe recognising academic excellence is one practical way of building the pipeline of female talent needed for Ghana’s digital future. This prize reflects our commitment to encouraging young women who are choosing underrepresented fields such as computer engineering to be more visible, equipped and supported to lead in technology, engineering and innovation,” Mrs Appenteng said.
Ms Brown said that she hoped her recognition carries meaning beyond academic distinction by helping to shift perceptions for younger girls considering careers in engineering. “I hope this prize inspires more girls to believe in themselves and pursue engineering or any course they want. They just need to have the mindset that they can do it. With that mindset and determination to learn, you can pursue any programme. So don’t be scared, just start and do it.”
Looking to the future, Ms Brown said she is interested in delving more into machine learning, embedded systems, and hardware security. “I’m building my knowledge and career by looking to take extra courses in these new frontiers of technology and learning from people who are already in the field, before pursuing a graduate programme.”
BY TIMES REPORTER
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