UEW Scholars Triumph in Global Innovation Contest
In a triumphant moment for the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Mrs. Nelly Adjoa Sakyi-Hagan, and Dr. (Mrs.) Charity Esenam Anor, scholars from the Department of Integrated Science Education, have emerged victorious in the prestigious "Laissez-Passer of the Erasmus Generation" contest.
Their ground-breaking project, "Empowering Girls through Menstrual Hygiene Awareness," captivated the audience at the finals held during the "Higher Education European Networking Summit," in Milan.
The contest, organised by the garagErasmus Foundation, aims to celebrate innovation and impact within the global Erasmus community. Out of numerous submissions, the Ghanaian scholars' project secured a spot among the top five finalists, earning them a spotlight at the grand finale.
On the 16th of November, 2023, Mrs. Nelly Adjoa Sakyi-Hagan and Dr. (Mrs.) Charity Esenam Anor presented their project to a panel of Higher Education Institutions representatives during the summit. The project focuses on addressing the profound challenges faced by young girls in rural areas of Ghana during menstruation, impacting their health, emotions, physical well-being, and education.
The duo's initiative aims to empower these girls by providing education, creating awareness, and distributing safe and essential menstrual hygiene supplies. With many girls forced to drop out of school and facing early motherhood due to the lack of awareness and essential resources, this project strives to create a supportive environment for their well-being and education.
For their exemplary commitment to social innovation, Mrs. Nelly Adjoa Sakyi-Hagan and Dr. (Mrs.) Charity Esenam Anor were awarded €3,000.00 to execute their project. This financial support will enable them to make a tangible impact on the lives of young girls in Ghana, fostering positive change in their communities.
The journey to victory in the "Laissez-Passer of the Erasmus Generation" involved a rigorous three-step selection process. Initially, participants submitted their projects on social innovation, showcasing their dedication to making a positive impact in their communities. The top 10 projects were selected by an internal committee at garagErasmus, featured on the Foundation's social media channels, and put to a public vote. The five projects with the most likes earned a virtual invitation to the "Higher Education European Networking Summit," where finalists had the opportunity to present their projects.
The Laissez-Passer of the Erasmus Generation, launched in 2017 on the 30th Anniversary of the Erasmus programme, serves as a symbolic passport for distinguished European talents. It highlights the transformative experience of international study and work, often overlooked but essential for personal and professional growth.
The victory of Mrs. Nelly Adjoa Sakyi-Hagan and Dr. (Mrs.) Charity Esenam Anor not only underscores their dedication to social change but also exemplifies the broader impact of the contest in recognising and supporting initiatives that contribute to the well-being and progress of communities around the world.
