Government called to further improve healthcare system nationwide at UHAS 9th Congregation

The Chief Executive Director of The Trust Hospital Company Ltd., Dr. Mrs. Juliana Oye Ameh, has urged the government of Ghana to intensify efforts to improve the nation’s healthcare system.

Speaking at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) 9th Congregation held in Ho, Volta Region, on Saturday, November 30, 2024, Dr. Ameh emphasized that healthcare is not just an economic concern but a moral duty.

"Every Ghanaian, regardless of their socioeconomic status, deserves safe, compassionate, and effective care," she asserted, stressing the importance of quality healthcare in reducing disease burdens, enhancing productivity, and extending life expectancy. She called for expanded access to healthcare services in both urban and rural areas and highlighted the need for investment in healthcare infrastructure and the adoption of technological innovations to improve the system.

Dr. Ameh also referred to a 2018 report by The Lancet Global Health Commission, which indicated that low- and middle-income countries lost six trillion U.S. dollars in 2015 due to preventable diseases caused by poor healthcare quality. "Poor quality care is now a bigger barrier to reducing mortality than insufficient access," she stated, adding that 60% of deaths from conditions amenable to healthcare are due to poor care. She urged the graduates to adhere to national healthcare standards to ensure safe and high-quality care in their practices.

In line with the theme of the event, "Situating quality healthcare in national development and sustainability," Dr. Ameh encouraged the graduates to consider the broader impact of their education on national growth and sustainability. She praised their academic achievements and recognized their potential to transform lives and contribute to the nation’s development.

In her final remarks, Dr. Ameh encouraged the graduates to embrace leadership roles in shaping Ghana’s healthcare future. "Pursue excellence," she advised, "and recognize that your patients are entitled to the highest standard of care." She also emphasized the importance of integrity, accountability, and personal responsibility. "Your actions must reflect the standards you wish to see in others," she stated. She particularly commended the pioneering graduates from the School of Sports and Exercise Medicine, calling them trailblazers in sub-Saharan Africa and urging them to set groundbreaking records.

Dr. Ameh concluded by encouraging the graduates to live by the values of UHAS—Excellence, Innovation, Integrity, Service, and Care—in both their professional and personal lives. "The opportunity to shape the future lies within each of you," she declared.

Miss. Darlington Ekua Acquah, (overall best-graduating student for the UHAS 9TH Congregation with CGPA of 3.94 (first on the left ) received her plaque from Dr. Lydia Aziato (middle) and Dr. Juliana Oyeh Ameh (On the Right)

Prof. Lydia Aziato, Vice Chancellor of UHAS, announced that the university will introduce new programs in 2025, including a PhD in Imaging, the first of its kind in Ghana, and a combined Bachelor’s and Master’s in Psychology. Additionally, the university will offer new MPhil and PhD programs in medical laboratory sciences, pharmacology, and related fields. Prof. Aziato also highlighted the success of international initiatives, including the Science of Defeating Malaria course and the second U.S. Research Conference, with 224 attendees and 254 scholarships awarded. She stressed the need for further funding to expand these opportunities and encouraged the graduates to prioritize continuous learning.

Justice Victor J.M. Dotse, Chairman of the University Council, noted that since UHAS’ first graduation in 2016, the institution has produced over 8,944 professionals who have contributed significantly to healthcare in Ghana. He emphasized the university’s commitment to creating an academic environment that fosters clinical competency, ethics, and professionalism. He also discussed ongoing infrastructural developments, including the Sokode-Titrinu Bypass Dual Carriage Road Project, which has improved access to the university, while acknowledging that limited infrastructure remains a challenge in accommodating a growing student body.

Justice Dotse congratulated the graduates and urged them to maintain professionalism and integrity in their practice. He also advised them to avoid involvement in any form of violence or misconduct during the 2024 elections. "Conduct yourselves appropriately before, during, and after the elections," he emphasized.

In closing, Justice Dotse shared inspirational quotes, urging graduates to pursue their careers with passion and dedication. He quoted Anthony Robbins: "It is not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It is what we do consistently." He also referenced Simon Sinek: "Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something we love is called passion."

The ceremony also recognized Miss Darlington Ekua Acquah as the overall best graduating student with a CGPA of 3.94. Miss Irene Fafa Atadika from the Fred N. Binka School of Public Health received the award for the best student in the Morning Session with a CGPA of 3.81. The university also awarded the first postgraduate certificate in Medical Imaging in the West African Subregion to Dr. Vivian Della Atuwo-Ampoh.