The contributions of female ceramists in academia to the development of ceramic education and practice in Ghana

Abstract

The indigenous Ceramic sector especially pottery in Ghana and Africa at large are pioneered by women. However, the contributions of female ceramists in academia have not received much attention in previous studies. This research implored a qualitative study with a biographical-narrative design to explore the academic and professional journey of the female ceramists identified in academia; their contributions to Ceramic education in Ghana, their challenges and how they have learnt to cope. Purposive sampling was used to identify two female ceramists in academia. Data were collected primarily using semi-structured interviews were supported by the use of observation and graphics(pictures). Thematic analysis was applied in analysing the data. It was reported that both participants had their secondary education at Fijai Secondary school, Sekondi and obtained their first and higher degrees from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. Participants have contributed their quota to the development of Ceramic education through teaching, research publications and projects undertaken. The study also reviewed that both participants had challenges at home and in the institution. The coping strategies adopted by these partcipants to overcome their challenges at the workplace were intrinsccally generated. It was reccomneded that Universities and higher institutions in Ghana should recommend, encourage and assist the promising and interested females in the field of Ceramics to upgrade themselves to lecture at the tertiary institutions. Also, women should be given more opportunity in academia to contribute immensely and meaningfully in the field of Ceramic. To help curb the challenges of Ceramic education in Ghana it was recommended that Ceramic studios at both the Second Cycle Schools and in the Universities should be well resourced with modern equipment & raw materials by the stakeholders of education for effective teaching and learning.