The Ministry of Health has announced plans to sponsor 15 nurses and midwifery educators to pursue doctoral studies this year, in what government descr
The Ministry of Health has announced plans to sponsor 15 nurses and midwifery educators to pursue doctoral studies this year, in what government describes as a deliberate step to boost professional capacity in the health sector.
The policy was unveiled by the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, during the 6th edition of the Nursing and Midwifery Excellence and Hall of Fame Awards in Tamale.
According to him, the initiative forms part of government’s broader strategy to improve the quality of healthcare delivery by investing in advanced training for health professionals.
Building A Highly Skilled Workforce
Akandoh explained that the PhD sponsorship programme is designed to raise more health professionals to the highest academic ladder within the next four years.
He said Ghana cannot achieve quality healthcare without ensuring that its frontline workforce is “well-trained, well-equipped, well-supported, and fairly rewarded.”
By empowering nurse and midwifery educators with advanced research and teaching skills, the government hopes to address gaps in training, mentorship, and leadership in the sector.
Addressing Sector Challenges
The Minister also used the occasion to acknowledge the challenges confronting the health sector, including staff attrition, poor working conditions, and safety concerns.
Ghana has in recent years witnessed an increasing number of nurses and other professionals migrating abroad in search of better opportunities, a trend that has weakened healthcare delivery in underserved communities.
Celebrating Excellence In Nursing And Midwifery
The Tamale ceremony, which has become a flagship event on the health calendar, recognized outstanding contributions in areas such as clinical practice, education, research, leadership, regulation, and service delivery in deprived communities.
One of the highlights was the induction of three distinguished personalities into the Nursing and Midwifery Hall of Fame.
The Minister described the recognition as a “statement of national pride” and a reminder of the critical role nurses and midwives continue to play in the healthcare system.
Looking Ahead
By institutionalizing the Excellence and Hall of Fame Awards, the Ministry says it seeks to build a culture of professionalism, accountability, and motivation among health workers.
The new PhD sponsorship scheme is expected to begin this year, with government committing resources to ensure its sustainability.
COMMENTS