Dr. Gloria Agyeiwaa Antwi Botchway: Ghana’s First Female PhD Holder in Mathematics

Dr. Gloria Agyeiwaa Antwi Botchway has become the first Ghanaian woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana. Her historic accomplishment shatters gender-based barriers and inspires a new generation of female mathematicians in a field traditionally dominated by men.

Dr. Botchway’s journey is one of resilience, perseverance, and triumph over adversity. From her humble beginnings in Akaa Buem, a village in the Oti Region, to earning the highest academic accolade in Mathematics, her story is a testament to the power of determination and access to education.

A Humble Beginning

Born into a family of four, Gloria is the second child of her parents. Her family relocated to Accra during her mother’s educational pursuits, facing significant challenges. Living in a cramped compound with relatives, Gloria started hawking goods at just seven years old to support her family.

“I remember selling pure water and foodstuffs like yam and fish. It was tough, but I enjoyed it because I loved anything that had to do with business and accounting,” she shared in an interview. Despite her mother’s concerns about the risks of selling by the roadside, Gloria embraced the experience, viewing it as a means to contribute to her family’s welfare.

Her school years were marked by sacrifices. She wore the same uniform from class four through junior high school due to financial constraints. Often hiding her meals of leftover banku to avoid ridicule from classmates, she even starved herself at times to provide food for her younger brother.

Educational Journey

The family’s frequent relocations meant Gloria attended six schools during her basic education, a situation that posed significant challenges. She struggled to adapt to different teaching methods and curricula, which initially made her dislike science subjects. However, her passion for learning remained steadfast.

She transitioned to Accra Girls Secondary School, where her natural affinity for Mathematics began to shine. Despite starting in the Business stream, Gloria's Mathematics teacher recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue a career in academia.

At the University of Ghana, Gloria initially enrolled in Business Administration but eventually switched to Mathematics. Inspired by mentors such as Prof. Elsie Kaufmann, she realized that Mathematics offered unique challenges and opportunities that aligned with her ambitions.

Breaking Barriers

Earning a PhD in Mathematics is no small feat. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Botchway faced significant challenges, including a lack of female role models in her field and the demanding nature of her studies.

“Math is challenging. It's not easy,” she admitted. “But if you love it, you would do it.”

Dr. Botchway also balanced her academic pursuits with her personal life. Married during her master’s program, she had her two children before graduation and two more during her PhD studies. She credits her husband and family for their unwavering support, which enabled her to manage her multiple roles.

Her determination, coupled with support from mentors, family, and institutions, culminated in her becoming Ghana's first female PhD holder in Mathematics in 2024.

Giving Back and Inspiring the Future

Dr. Botchway is committed to using her platform to inspire and support the next generation of female mathematicians. She is actively involved in the "Enhancing M in STEM" project, which focuses on improving Mathematics education for girls in secondary schools.

“I want to be able to see Math being applied to something relevant. It’s not just theoretical; we are solving real problems,” she explained.

Dr. Botchway’s ambitions include becoming the first female Professor of Mathematics at the University of Ghana. To young women aspiring to enter STEM fields, she offers powerful advice:

“Don’t let what people say stop you. Don’t let the environment stop you. In fact, don’t let yourself stop yourself.”

Recognizing a Trailblazer

Her achievement has been celebrated by academics, family, and peers alike. Dr. Chisara Peace Ogbogbo, Head of the Department of Mathematics at the University of Ghana, described Dr. Botchway as a “serious-minded and reliable individual who always strives to excel.”

Dr. Botchway has also received accolades for her leadership and mentorship, having formed study groups that greatly benefited her colleagues.

The Road Ahead

As Ghana strives to increase female participation in STEM fields, Dr. Botchway’s journey serves as both inspiration and a call to action. Her story underscores the importance of creating opportunities for women in STEM, addressing challenges such as financial barriers, and ensuring that rural girls have access to quality education.

Dr. Gloria Agyeiwaa Antwi Botchway’s story is a shining example of resilience and the boundless potential of women in STEM. Her remarkable achievement will undoubtedly pave the way for future generations of Ghanaian women to pursue careers in Mathematics and beyond.