'Girls in Aviation Day' marked at KIA to empower next generation of women in aviation

The 10th Girls in Aviation Day has been observed at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) on the theme ‘’Mentor, Inspire and Empower Girls’’.

The day is celebrated globally by the various chapters of Women in Aviation International (WAI) to inspire, educate and empower girls between the ages of 8 and 18 to pursue careers in the aviation industry.

In Ghana, the event was organised by WAI, Ghana Chapter comprising women professionals working in the Aviation Industry.

Selected students from Tema Methodist Day Senior High School, Corpus Christi Senior High School, Our Lady of Mercy Senior High School and African Science Academy were sponsored for this year’s event.

In her welcome remarks, the Treasurer of the WAI Ghana Chapter, Mrs Cynthia Kukah indicated that the Ghana Chapter had been dedicated to promoting and advancing women and girls in the aviation since 2015. She further indicated that the Girls in Aviation Day is observed annually in over 19 countries, with over 150 events planned across the globe.

Mrs Kukah outlined activities for this year’s celebration including educational sessions, tours, exhibitions and interactions with professionals in the industry. She encouraged the schools to form aviation clubs to whip up interest in the youth especially girls while urging them to make the most of the opportunity by asking questions, learning and be inspired by the trailblazers in the industry.

In her keynote address, the Deputy Commissioner of Ghana Immigration Service, KIA and Regional Commander, KIA, Mrs Edith Penelope Arhin noted that the celebration represented hope, potential and promise for the young girls who aspire to soar to new heights in the aviation industry. ‘’Today, we recognise not only the progress women have made in aviation, but also the dreams and aspirations of the next generation’’ Mrs Arhin said.

She indicated that the aviation industry required courage, commitment and passion for learning and despite the challenges faced, they had the power to break barriers and redefine the future of aviation.

Mrs Arhin expressed gratitude to the Women in Aviation International, Ghana Chapter for creating a space that uplifts and empowers young girls. She urged the young girls to use the opportunity to learn and connect with accomplished professionals whose stories can inspire their journey.

Other speakers at the event included, Mrs Eloina Baddoo, General Manager, Delta Air Lines Sales Office, Hon. Felicia Edem Attipoe, Municipal Chief Executive, Tema West Assembly, Mrs Elsie Adikie Okutu-Bediako, General Manager, West Africa United Airlines among others.

This year’s event was sponsored by Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Amandi, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines.

Women in Aviation International is a non-profit organization dedicated to the encouragement and advancement of women in all aviation and aerospace career fields and interests. They offer educational outreach programs to young girls national and internationally through programmes such as the Annual Girls in Aviation Day.