Introducing the First Woman to Earn a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana
Dr. Gloria Agyeiwaa Antwi Botchway has made history as the first woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana (UG). Her achievement has broken significant barriers, offering inspiration to future generations of female mathematicians in a field traditionally dominated by men. Dr. Botchway’s story is one of resilience, hard work, and a deep passion for mathematics, proving that determination can overcome any challenge.
Dr. Botchway hails from Akaa Buem, a village in the Oti Region, where she was born as the second child in a family of four. Her early life was marked by financial hardship when her family moved to Accra for her mother’s education. They lived in a crowded compound, struggling to make ends meet. Despite these challenges, Dr. Botchway displayed a strong work ethic from a young age, helping her family by hawking goods such as pure water, yam, and fish. “It was tough, but I enjoyed it because I loved anything to do with business and accounting,” she recalled.
Her school years were equally difficult. Dr. Botchway often took leftover banku to school, hiding it from her classmates to avoid teasing. “We hid behind the staircase because we didn’t want anyone to see what we were eating,” she shared, emphasizing the sacrifices she made for her family. The frequent relocations during her childhood, which led her to attend six different schools, brought additional challenges. As a result, Dr. Botchway struggled with science subjects at first due to varying curricula at each school.
Despite these hardships, Dr. Botchway’s mother remained a strong support, ensuring she stayed in school. This encouragement proved vital as Dr. Botchway moved to secondary school at Accra Girls’ Secondary School, where she initially studied business subjects. However, she soon discovered her true passion for mathematics. “I’ve always loved math. It challenges me, and I wanted to be in a field where few people ventured,” she explained. This realization, along with support from her math teacher, who encouraged her to pursue academia, set her on a path to study mathematics at the University of Ghana.
At UG, Dr. Botchway initially enrolled in Business Administration but quickly switched to Mathematics. She was inspired by mentors like Professor Elsie Kaufmann and Dr. Adu Gyamfi, who emphasized the career advantages of a mathematics degree. However, as a woman in a male-dominated field, Dr. Botchway faced skepticism and discouragement from others. “People didn’t expect me to continue with math,” she reflected. Despite the lack of female role models, she persevered and excelled in her studies, driven by her passion for the subject.
Her academic journey was not without its personal challenges. Dr. Botchway married during her master’s program and had two children before graduating. During her PhD studies, she had two more children. “Life has to go on,” she said, praising the support of her husband and family, who helped her juggle her multiple responsibilities. Her mother, in particular, played a pivotal role by providing emotional support and taking care of her children, allowing Dr. Botchway to focus on her studies.
In 2024, Dr. Botchway’s hard work culminated in her becoming the first woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana. This achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for gender representation in STEM fields in Ghana. Dr. Botchway now seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of female mathematicians. Through her involvement in the “Enhancing M in STEM” project, she aims to improve mathematics education for girls in secondary schools.
Dr. Botchway’s ambition does not stop at education. She aspires to become the first female professor of Mathematics at the University of Ghana. To young women considering a career in math, she offers this advice: “Don’t let what people say stop you. Don’t let the environment stop you. Don’t let yourself stop yourself.”
Dr. Botchway’s achievement has garnered praise from academics and peers alike. Professor Deborah Atobrah, Director of the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA), praised Dr. Botchway’s success as a major step forward for women in STEM. Dr. Chisara Peace Ogbogbo, Head of the Department of Mathematics at UG, commended Dr. Botchway’s work ethic, describing her as dedicated and reliable.
Dr. Botchway’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, showing that with determination and the right support, obstacles can be overcome. Her success serves as an inspiration to young women everywhere, proving that breaking barriers and achieving greatness is possible, no matter the field. Dr. Botchway’s groundbreaking achievement in mathematics is just the beginning, and she is now focused on paving the way for future generations of women in STEM.
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