Meet Pascal Meho-Akakpo, a Ghanaian international student in the Geography and Environmental Management Department at the University of Waterloo. His master’s research focused on health inequities in the Global South, specifically examining barriers to gender-transformative policymaking and programming in Ghana’s health and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH) sectors. Using a Feminist Political Ecology of Health framework, his research uncovered institutional and implementation barriers that hinder the effectiveness of gender-related policies in these areas. Additionally, the research findings further revealed existing health and WaSH-related policies with the potential to break down barriers to women’s empowerment. These existing policies and initiatives include The National Health Insurance Scheme, Community Water and Sanitation Program, Mother-to-Mother Support Initiative, and National Community Health and Planning Services Policy.
His findings affirm Ghana’s progressive efforts to address gender inequality gaps in the health and WaSH sectors. These initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the importance of gender equity in achieving broader socio-economic development goals. He recommended a unified framework for policymakers and practitioners pursuing a gender-transformative approach, as this approach goes beyond simply addressing inequalities; it seeks to transform the underlying social norms and power dynamics that contribute to gender inequality.
Congratulations Pascal! Wishing you continued success as you step into this next chapter of your academic and professional journey.