1951 – 1986: Early Life and Education
Born on November 22, 1951, in Cape Coast, Central Region, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang is an accomplished academic, educator, and stateswoman.
She attended Anglican Girls’ School in Koforidua, Aburi Presby Girls’ School, and Wesley Girls’ High School in Cape Coast.
She earned a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in English and French from the University of Cape Coast in 1977, a Diploma in Advanced Studies in French from the University of Dakar, Senegal, and later pursued her Master’s and Ph.D. in Literature at York University, Toronto, Canada, completing in 1986.

1986 – 2008: Academic Career and Leadership
After completing her studies, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang joined the University of Cape Coast as a lecturer in 1986.
Over the years, she rose through the ranks, serving as Head of the English Department, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research.
Her outstanding academic record and leadership earned her the position of Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast in 2008, making her the first woman to head a public university in Ghana.
She also served as Chairperson of several educational boards and committees and later as Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, Harare, Zimbabwe (2018–2024).

2013 – 2017: Minister for Education
In February 2013, she was appointed Minister for Education under President John Dramani Mahama.
During her tenure, she led major reforms in the education sector, including the conversion of polytechnics into technical universities, expansion of access to teacher training, and the promotion of inclusive and equitable education across Ghana.
Her leadership focused on improving quality education, girl-child education, and national literacy standards.

2020 – 2024: Political Engagement and National Leadership
In 2020, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang made history as the first female running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
She was re-nominated in 2024 as running mate to John Dramani Mahama. Their partnership emphasized integrity, equity, and national renewal under the “Building the Ghana We Want” agenda.
Her humility, intellectual depth, and passion for inclusive governance inspired many, especially women and youth.

2025 – Present: Vice President of the Republic of Ghana
On January 7, 2025, she was sworn in as Ghana’s first female Vice President, marking a new era of leadership and gender equality in the nation’s political history.
As Vice President, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang continues to champion education reform, women’s empowerment, and human development, aligning with the government’s Reset Ghana Agenda and 24-Hour Economy vision.

Legacy and Impact
Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang is celebrated as a pioneer in academia and politics — a woman of intellect, grace, and conviction.
Her leadership represents hope for equality, excellence, and transformation in Ghana’s journey toward sustainable development.