Health Minister reaffirms healthcare reform agenda at Family Health University ceremony

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, reaffirmed the government's commitment to Ghana's healthcare. He spoke about ambitious reforms and increased investment in frontline professionals.

He made these remarks at the 2025 Matriculation and Graduation Ceremony of Family Health University (FHU) in Accra. As Guest of Honour, he congratulated 303 graduating students and 444 matriculants. He praised the university for producing competent healthcare professionals.

The Minister emphasized that this ceremony was significant for the entire healthcare sector in Ghana. “This is not just a celebration for Family Health University,” he said. “It is a milestone for Ghana’s healthcare sector.”

Among the graduates, 36 received Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degrees. Additionally, 42 earned BSc degrees in Medical Sciences. From the Nursing and Midwifery School, 81 graduated with a BSc in Midwifery, while 88 earned a BSc in Nursing. Furthermore, 63 received certificates in Nurse Assistant Clinical (NAC).

The new matriculating class included 64 entrants into the Medical School. There were also 303 students enrolled in BSc Nursing and Midwifery programmes. Additionally, 76 students joined the NAC certificate programme.

Mr. Akandoh outlined key health sector initiatives during his speech. These include uncapping the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and rolling out free primary healthcare services. The “Mahama Cares” programme aims to address non-communicable diseases.

He noted that the government is investing heavily to modernize health facilities and improve working conditions for healthcare workers.

The Minister praised Family Health University for its academic rigor and practical training through its affiliation with Family Health Hospital. He recognized Professor Enyonam Yao Kwawukume and Dr. Susu Bridget Kwawukume as visionary leaders.

Since its establishment, FHU has trained over 190 medical doctors and more than 1,000 nurses and midwives.

In his address, Prof. Kwawukume reflected on the university's journey from humble beginnings to becoming fully chartered. He described receiving a Presidential Charter as recognition of academic excellence and a call to greater responsibility.

He announced plans to focus on action-based research in areas like maternal health and mental healthcare. “We must bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and community impact,” he stated.

Prof. Kwawukume also revealed plans to expand postgraduate medical education and introduce new programmes in health technology and public health policy. He called for stronger collaboration with international universities to prepare future healthcare leaders.

He urged graduating students to embody values of service, excellence, and empathy as they enter their professions.

The ceremony celebrated academic excellence with awards given to outstanding students. Miss Matah Naoussi Leaticia Brenda was named Valedictorian of the MBChB Class of 2024 after winning all available awards in her programme.

In the BSc Medical Sciences category, Miss Yeboah Ewurabena Boatemaa won nine out of twelve awards available. Other awardees included Miss Isabella Matey-Korley and Miss Owusu-Mintah Afaribea Akua who excelled as well.

Notable attendees included Brigadier General Daniel Kwadjo Frimpong (Rtd.), Council Chairman; Dr. Susu Bridget Kwawukume; Professor Philip Odonkor; Mrs. Rita Kaine; Dr. Sylvester Yaw Oppong; Dr. Patience Aniteye; faculty members; alumni; representatives from Teshie Traditional Council; and key stakeholders from Ghana’s healthcare sector.