On Friday, July 5, 2024, PAMCA Ghana hosted an insightful webinar centered on the theme, “Perspectives from Academia, Research, and Implementation.” This event focused on elevating the role of women in vector control, offering a platform to highlight female leadership and expertise in this vital field. The webinar featured an esteemed panel, including Dr. Jewlena Akorli, Mrs. Otubia Akrofi, and Dr. Sandra A. Kwarteng, who shared their unique experiences and perspectives from academia, research, and hands-on implementation in vector control.
A Spotlight on Women’s Contributions in Vector Control
Each speaker brought distinct insights from their areas of specialization, collectively underscoring the importance of collaborative approaches to combat vector-borne diseases. Their discussions centered on the challenges, breakthroughs, and innovative methods that women are championing within the fields of academia, research, and public health implementation.
- Dr. Jewlena Akorli – Dr. Akorli emphasized the significance of academia in developing future leaders in vector control. She spoke passionately about her work, which focuses on training and mentoring the next generation of scientists, particularly young women who aspire to make impactful changes in this field. Her presentation underscored the power of research-driven knowledge to advance policies and strategies that can reduce vector-borne disease transmission.
- Mrs. Otubia Akrofi – Representing the research perspective, Mrs. Akrofi provided an in-depth look into the latest research findings in vector control, including advancements in diagnostics and prevention methods. Her work emphasizes collaborative research efforts that combine fieldwork, data analysis, and innovative technologies to understand vector behavior and spread patterns. Mrs. Akrofi highlighted the critical role of female scientists in generating data-driven solutions and influencing research methodologies.
- Dr. Sandra A. Kwarteng – From an implementation standpoint, Dr. Kwarteng discussed the practical challenges and successes of on-the-ground vector control efforts. Her work involves leading community-based programs that address vector-borne diseases through effective prevention, education, and direct intervention. Dr. Kwarteng’s insights highlighted the significance of community engagement and grassroots efforts, particularly the importance of educating women in local communities to become advocates for disease prevention.
Key Takeaways and Impact
This webinar was not only a platform for sharing technical expertise but also a call to action to empower more women to enter and lead within vector control. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the panelists’ commitment to science, research, and community health. PAMCA Ghana’s dedication to promoting gender inclusivity in vector control continues to build a future where diverse perspectives drive innovation and sustainability in public health.
This webinar stands as a testament to the invaluable contributions of women in the fight against vector-borne diseases, and PAMCA Ghana’s initiative continues to inspire the next generation of leaders in vector control across Africa and beyond.
