The Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has pledged government support for Family Health University (FHU), particularly in the areas of research, medical education, and training healthcare professionals. Speaking as the guest speaker at the official launch of FHU in Accra, Hon. Iddrisu commended the institution for its remarkable growth and its contributions to Ghana’s healthcare sector.
Hon. Iddrisu reflected on the university’s journey, acknowledging the pivotal role of President John Dramani Mahama, who witnessed the early development of Family Health College, now transformed into a full-fledged university. He praised the vision and leadership of Professor Enyonam Yao Kwawukume, whose dedication to medical education has significantly impacted Ghana’s healthcare landscape.
The minister acknowledged FHU’s achievements, including the training of over 100 doctors and more than 1,000 nurses, who are serving in various parts of the country. He emphasized the importance of addressing the deficit of medical practitioners, especially in rural and underserved areas, and proposed a potential collaboration with FHU to train local doctors willing to serve their communities.
Hon. Iddrisu also reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting academic freedom, assuring that the NDC administration would not interfere with university governance. He revealed plans to reconstitute the councils of various universities in the coming days. Additionally, he announced the imminent inauguration of the National Research Fund, which will support academic research, including projects initiated by FHU.
Prof. Kwawukume, the Founder and Vice-Chancellor of FHU, highlighted the university’s growth from a college to Ghana’s first private university with a medical school, reflecting its commitment to healthcare delivery, research advancement, and global competitiveness. He noted the university’s recent infrastructural developments, including a state-of-the-art dialysis unit, a modern dental facility, upgraded surgical theatres, and student-friendly amenities like air-conditioned lecture halls and a multipurpose field.
The Vice-Chancellor proudly shared that FHU has trained thousands of healthcare professionals, some of whom have earned recognition across the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Northern regions. He also emphasized FHU’s inclusion in the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), which allows its graduates to take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
Prof. Kwawukume called on the government to collaborate with FHU in training more doctors locally, ensuring they are both highly skilled and culturally attuned to Ghana’s healthcare needs. He also highlighted FHU’s growing international collaborations with institutions like the University of Michigan and the University of Virginia, which facilitate student and faculty exchanges.
Hon. Iddrisu lauded FHU’s research initiatives, particularly its efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic when it produced FDA-approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline workers. He assured the university of government support to continue its impactful work, including expanding research and training programs.
With its rapid development, commitment to research, and practical healthcare solutions, Family Health University is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of medical education and healthcare delivery in Ghana.
