Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang demands sanctions for sex-for-jobs perpetrators

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called for the immediate investigation and sanctioning of individuals involved in sex-for-jobs and sex-for-grades schemes. Speaking at the 2026 Sex for Jobs Conference in Accra, she emphasized that the culture of sexual exploitation in workplaces and academic institutions must be dismantled to protect the integrity of Ghana's workforce and talent pool. She argued that existing legal frameworks are inadequate if they are not effectively implemented to deter such behavior.

The Vice President advocated for the establishment of independent reporting channels that allow victims to come forward without fear of retaliation. She noted that many cases currently go unreported because victims lack safe avenues to seek justice. According to Professor Opoku-Agyemang, thorough investigations are essential to ensuring that accountability is upheld and that those found guilty face appropriate legal or professional consequences to restore public confidence in national institutions.

Highlighting the broader socio-economic consequences of sexual harassment, the Vice President stated that such practices directly undermine national development. She explained that when merit is sidelined in favor of sexual favors, it leads to a significant waste of talent and erodes the foundations of a fair society. Protecting the dignity of workers and students, she argued, is a prerequisite for building a productive and equitable nation.

In her closing remarks, Professor Opoku-Agyemang urged both government agencies and private institutions to take collective responsibility for creating safe environments. She encouraged leadership across all sectors to implement internal policies that explicitly reject exploitation and promote gender equity. By fostering a culture of zero tolerance, she believes Ghana can ensure that no individual has to endure harassment as a condition for career or educational advancement.