Adei urges govt to fund universities amid med school crisis
Speaking at the 6th Congregation and 10th anniversary celebration of Accra College of Medicine in Accra on Saturday, Prof Emeritus Stephen Adei, chairman of the council, urged the government to adopt a dedicated national policy that would strengthen the role of private tertiary institutions in Ghana’s development.
Prof Adei highlighted a widening gap in medical admissions, noting that the University of Ghana Medical School received about four thousand applications this year but can admit only one hundred and fifty students. He described the shortfall as a clear sign that the state can no longer rely solely on public institutions to train the country’s future doctors.
“The government must partner with private medical schools to accommodate qualified applicants who are rejected each year because of limited capacity,” Adei said. He explained that such collaboration would ease pressure on the government to build new training facilities and would quickly expand Ghana’s medical workforce.
Ghana now hosts more than ninety accredited private institutions. “There is an urgent need for a structured policy and agenda that enhances the contribution of private universities and colleges,” Adei added, emphasizing the potential of a public‑private partnership to close the widening gap in medical education.
According to the professor, a dedicated policy would not only increase the number of doctors but also strengthen the nation’s healthcare system, benefitting ordinary Ghanaians who rely on accessible, quality medical services.
The council chair called on the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health to convene stakeholders and draft the policy without delay, noting that timely action is essential to meet the country’s growing health needs.
As the debate unfolds, private institutions remain ready to play a larger role, provided the government offers clear guidelines and support.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
