NRC celebrates International Women's Day through global gender equality partnership

Northern Regional College recently welcomed more than 100 students and staff from across its campuses to a special International Women’s Day Conference at the Causeway Campus, celebrating the theme “Give to Gain” and highlighting the importance of collaboration, empowerment and gender equality in education and leadership.

The conference formed part of a wider British Council-funded international partnership project between Northern Regional College and Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) in Ghana, focused on promoting gender equality, leadership opportunities and increased participation for women in traditionally underrepresented fields, including engineering and STEM.

The event brought together guest speakers, interactive workshops and panel discussions designed to challenge perceptions, inspire future leaders and encourage open conversations about equality and opportunity.

The day began with an engaging and interactive quiz delivered by youth facilitator and consultant Jamie Plant, which encouraged attendees to reconsider common myths, statistics and key milestones surrounding gender equality.

A thought-provoking panel discussion followed, chaired by Lynsey Sloan, Head of Department at Northern Regional College, exploring key themes including Women in Leadership, Women in STEM, and the importance of challenging societal stereotypes that can limit opportunities for women and girls.

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Panel members shared powerful insights and personal experiences, including Caitline Anderson, Student Women’s Officer, Gareth Spratt, Curriculum Area Manager, Kevin McReynolds from White Ribbon NI, and Ing. Prof. Abena Agyeiwaa Obiri-Yeboah, Pro Vice Chancellor of Kumasi Technical University.

The conference also highlighted the impact of the College’s international partnership work, with Ing. Prof. Julius C. Ahiekpor, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at Kumasi Technical University, outlining initiatives underway in Ghana to encourage more girls to pursue careers in engineering and technical industries.

Attendees also heard an inspiring closing message from Early Years lecturer Tanyza Teague, who reflected on the importance of supporting one another throughout our careers and embracing opportunities to both give and receive mentorship.

Throughout the event, students contributed to a creative International Women’s Day memory board, sharing Polaroid photographs, inspirational quotes and the names of women who have influenced and inspired them, capturing the spirit of the day and the conference theme.

A range of organisations also attended the conference to provide information and support services for students, including Glow NI, Women’s Aid, Nexus, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Speaking about the conference, Lynsey Sloan, Head of Department at Northern Regional College, said: “This conference was a fantastic opportunity to bring together students, staff and international partners to celebrate the achievements of women while also having honest conversations about the challenges that still exist. Through our partnership with Kumasi Technical University and the support of the British Council, we are able to share knowledge, learn from one another and continue working towards greater gender equality in education and the workplace. Events like this encourage our students to reflect, engage and see themselves as part of the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”

The International Women’s Day Conference is one of several initiatives delivered through the College’s international partnership activity, reinforcing Northern Regional College’s commitment to global collaboration, student engagement and promoting equality across education and industry.