Title:
Career aspirations and influencing factors among male and female students studying Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in Ghana
Authors:
Charlotte Wrigley-Asante, Department of Geography and Resource Development/ Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
Charles Godfred Ackah, Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
Louis Kusi Frimpong, Department of Geography and Earth Science, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
Published:
Ghana Journal of Geography, Volume 14, Number 1,19 April 2022
Abstract:
This paper examines the career aspirations of male and female students studying Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects at the tertiary level in Ghana and the motivating factors for these aspirations. The study objectives were addressed using data gathered from a survey, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used in analysing the quantitative data, while the qualitative data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The results show that there is no significant difference in the career aspirations of male and female students. However, we established that there are differences in the factors that influence career choices of male and female students. While economic consideration was a significant factor for males’ interest in pursuing a career in STEM, females were influenced by external motivation factors such as encouragement and motivation from role models. The authors recommend both formal and informal science-related mentorship programmes and internships as measures that could encourage females to actualise their career aspirations in STEM since it is an essential way of empowering them and building their capacities for national development.