As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2025, Dr. Sylvia Anie, a distinguished Ghanaian scientist, has called on stakeholders to dismantle barriers preventing women from reaching their full potential and contributing to societal development.

Dr. Anie, Co-Chair of the WHO Expert Panel on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, is a global trailblazer whose groundbreaking work has left an indelible mark on science and gender advocacy.

Dr. Anie first gained international recognition as a researcher at the University of Manchester’s Medical School in the UK. Her pioneering work led to the development of a compound used in Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Gastrointestinal Tract, a discovery documented and patented in 1990.

Her contributions to science have earned her numerous accolades, including fellowships from the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Royal Society of Medicine in the UK. In 2015, she was honoured as an African Science Hero, and in 2011, she addressed the UN General Assembly in New York on HIV and health.

Dr. Anie has also served as Director of Gender, Health, and Education at the Commonwealth Secretariat, UK, further solidifying her commitment to advancing human development.

Dr. Anie embodies the spirit of determination and innovation that defines women’s empowerment. As one of the few women to shatter glass ceilings and defy stereotypes, she is a powerful advocate for creating opportunities for women and young girls to rise to the top.

This year’s IWD theme, Accelerate Action, underscores the urgent need to advance gender parity. In a statement commemorating the day, Dr. Anie highlighted the persistent challenges women face: “Many women still face discrimination, gender-based violence, unequal pay, and limited access to education and opportunities. It is our collective responsibility to break these barriers and create a world where every woman and girl can thrive.”

In Ghana, Dr. Anie stands as a beacon of inspiration, proving that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, women can achieve greatness. She emphasized the importance of systemic change: “By supporting policies that promote gender equality, ensuring women’s voices are heard, and challenging societal norms that hold them back, we move closer to a future where equality is not just a goal but a reality.”

In 2022, the Royal Society of Medicine, UK, honoured Dr. Anie as one of five West African role models to mark the UN’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science—a testament to her enduring impact.

Reflecting on the global contributions of women, Dr. Anie noted that International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate achievements, resilience, and progress while acknowledging the work that remains.

“Women continue to break barriers in politics, business, education, science, and many other fields, proving that when given the opportunity, they can transform societies and economies,” she said. “From grassroots movements to leadership positions, women are shaping a better future for all.”

Dr. Anie believes that promoting gender equality, challenging biases, and creating opportunities for women to thrive are essential steps toward unlocking their full potential.

“This day is also a call to action,” she reiterated. “Let us all work together to empower women because when women rise, we all rise.”

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025, Dr. Sylvia Anie’s voice resonates as a reminder of the transformative power of gender equality and the urgent need to accelerate action for a more equitable and prosperous future.