The Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC) of Ghana has conducted an induction and oath-swearing ceremony for 15,000 graduates from 12 allied health professions. The event, held at the University for Development Studies (UDS) Dungu campus in Tamale, Northern Region, marked the transition of these graduates from studentship to internship. The ceremony's theme, “Setting the Standard: Regulating Service, Safety and Excellence across Universal Health Coverage,” underscored the importance of quality healthcare services.
AHPC Registrar, Prof. Shirazu Issahaku, addressed the inductees, clarifying that they are not yet licensed professionals. He emphasized that the induction signifies their move towards becoming professionals but stressed that they must not present themselves as licensed practitioners at this stage. Prof. Issahaku highlighted the significance of universal health coverage, which requires access to safe, competent, and trustworthy care.
The AHPC has been proactive in ensuring compliance with standards across the country. This year, the Council focused on inspections to assess whether requirements are being met, identify gaps, and insist on necessary improvements to protect the public. Prof. Issahaku assured the inductees that the Council will continue to set and enforce standards and urged institutions to provide conducive environments for effective learning.
The guest speaker, Dr. Abu Abudu Rahamani, encouraged the inductees to set high standards and serve as ambassadors for their professions. He urged them to approach their work with courage, kindness, and competence. Dr. Rahamani's address emphasized the importance of maintaining high professional standards in healthcare delivery.
Representing the Minister of Health, Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno, Director of Allied Health at the Ministry of Health, commended the AHPC for its efforts in regulating the allied health professions. He urged the inductees to uphold their integrity, maintain uncompromising professional standards, and become trusted leaders in their work. Dr. Awinibuno also assured the Council of the Ministry's commitment to collaborating with it to strengthen regulation and health service delivery.
The Ministry of Health recognizes the contributions of the AHPC and is committed to working with the Council to enhance professional development, quality assurance, and health service delivery. Dr. Awinibuno expressed his appreciation for the AHPC's role in ensuring that healthcare professionals adhere to the required standards, thereby protecting public trust.
The induction and oath-swearing ceremony for the 15,000 graduates marks a significant milestone in their careers. As they begin their internships, they are expected to bring humility, diligence, and integrity to their assignments. The AHPC's ongoing efforts to regulate and standardize healthcare services in Ghana are crucial in ensuring that the public receives safe and competent care.
Key points
- The AHPC inducted 15,000 graduates from 12 allied health professions in a ceremony held in Tamale, Ghana.
- The ceremony emphasized the importance of setting standards and ensuring safety and excellence in healthcare services.
- The AHPC and the Ministry of Health are committed to working together to strengthen regulation and health service delivery in Ghana.
