Graduate Nurses and Midwives Protest 5 Years Without Jobs
Graduate nurses and midwives are preparing for a major demonstration to protest the government’s delay in posting qualified personnel, some of whom have been unemployed for up to five years.
The Graduate Unemployed Nurses and Midwives Association (GUNMA) is currently in talks with the Regional Police Command to obtain clearance and finalize logistical arrangements for the planned protest. Members have warned that the demonstration could escalate if their concerns are not addressed.
This planned action is the latest in a series of expressions of frustration from thousands of trained nurses and midwives who remain jobless despite critical staffing needs within Ghana’s healthcare system.
The association intends to present their grievances directly to key government institutions, including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, and the Jubilee House.
“The association is prepared to take their grievances to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, and the Jubilee House if necessary,” Sandra Frimpong, Women’s President of GUNMA, stated in an interview with Adom News on Tuesday, December 9, at the National Theatre, where initial protest plans were discussed.
Many members expressed disappointment and frustration, recounting years spent awaiting postings after completing their training. They emphasized the significant financial investment made in their education, both personally and by the state.
The ongoing unemployment crisis among healthcare professionals sharply contrasts with the high demand for medical personnel across the country. While precise figures vary, historical data indicates a substantial backlog of unposted nursing graduates.
This situation occurs despite recommendations from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for adequate nurse-to-patient ratios, which Ghana often struggles to meet, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The protest highlights systemic challenges, notably the protracted financial clearance process. This requires final authorization from the Ministry of Finance for payroll inclusion, even after the Ministry of Health has identified staffing needs.
The delays not only cause hardship for the unemployed graduates but also negatively impact the quality of healthcare delivery, as their skills remain untapped.
GUNMA’s anticipated demonstration follows previous protests, including picketing at the Finance Ministry, demonstrating the persistent nature of this employment issue within the health sector.
The association is expected to announce the specific date and route of the protest following the conclusion of discussions with the police.
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