The School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho (UHAS) held its maiden White Coat ceremony for 42 Level 400 Medicine Students. The ceremony basically marks the transition of the students from the pre-clinical phase of their training to the clinical phase; it is a rite of passage for the young students to be identified as doctors in training. The ceremony’s highlights were when mentors assisted students to wear their white coats, which symbolises compassion for patients and professionalism; and the students’ swearing of the UHAS School of Medicine Oath.

Professor Harry Tagbor, Dean of UHAS School of Medicine, stated that the School’s inaugural class of 42 students have successfully completed their pre-clinical training and are psychologically and academically ready to begin the next stage of their training. He admonished the students to apply the knowledge gained in Basic Medical Sciences during their contact with patients at the wards and in operating theatres. Professor Tagbor further urged the students to be professionals and abide by the laws and code of ethics that govern Medical Practice in Ghana

In a speech read on his behalf, the Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Letsa stated Government’s commitment to UHAS. He informed the gathering of the President’s efforts to accelerate the conversion of the Regional Hospital to a Teaching Hospital. This he described as very critical in the training of young medical students as well as other health professionals.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Owusu Gyapong congratulated the students and urged them to accept postings to the rural parts of the country. He also charged parents / guardians not to relent on their support for their wards.

On behalf of the students, Ms. Bernice Ahiadormey expressed their gratitude to the management of UHAS, Faculty and supporting staff of the School of Medicine. She added that, the UHAS flagship vocational training program has exposed them to clinical practice in the rural parts of the country, and this has sufficiently equipped them to function in equal, if not greater capacity in Ghana and beyond.

The Medical Director of the Volta Regional Hospital, Dr. John Tampori administered the UHAS School of Medicine Oath to the students.

The ceremony was chaired by Dr. Joseph T. Nuertey – the Regional Director, Volta Regional Health Directorate. He also reiterated the need for medical professionals to accept postings to rural areas, where their services are needed most.

In attendance were Professor Theophilus Christian Fleischer (Pro-Vice Chancellor), Dr. Cynthia Sena Kpeglo (Registrar), Deans, Directors, Senior Members, Staff, Parents and Students.

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