GAFCONM commissions new facilities as second batch of trainees matriculates

The Ghana Armed Forces College of Nursing and Midwifery (GAFCONM) at the 37 Military Hospital has commissioned a new cafeteria, office complex and conference room, coinciding with the matriculation of its second batch of Bachelor of Science nursing and midwifery students.

The event, held on Thursday, April 2, 2026, brought together military officials, academia, parents and students under the theme“From Classroom to Global Care: Nurses and Midwives Shaping Universal Health Coverage.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Acting Principal, Major Bright Attah Addae, welcomed the newly admitted students and highlighted the significance of the occasion.

He noted that the matriculation formally admits fresh students into the academic community, marking the beginning of their professional journey in nursing and midwifery.

“For the 2025/2026 academic year, out of a total of 2,403 applicants, 490 candidates were admitted to be trained as nurses and midwives,” he said.

Major Addae explained that the College, established in 1941 as part of the 37 Military Hospital, remains the only military health training institution in Ghana, serving both military and civilian populations.

He added that the institution introduced Bachelor of Science programmes in Nursing and Midwifery in 2024, in affiliation with the University of Cape Coast and operates under the administrative oversight of the National Defence University.

However, he highlighted challenges facing the College, including inadequate hostel facilities, limited lecture halls, and a shortage of doctoral-level faculty. He appealed to stakeholders for support, particularly in accessing scholarships such as the GETFund.

Delivering a keynote address, Air Vice Marshal Dr Felix Adom Asante, President of the National Defence University, urged the students to demonstrate discipline, commitment and professionalism throughout their training.

He emphasised that the matriculation ceremony signified not only formal admission but also a pledge to uphold the standards, ethics, and traditions of the institution.

“Nurses and midwives play a critical role in achieving universal access to healthcare. Their professional competence, dedication, and compassion have a direct impact on the quality and accessibility of healthcare,” he stated.

Air Vice Marshal Asante further described GAFCONM as strategically positioned to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare workforce, preparing students to serve effectively in both military and civilian settings.

Also addressing the gathering, Professor Rosemond Aboagye Boohene, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, who represented the Acting Vice Chancellor, encouraged the students to strive for academic excellence and uphold strong moral values.

“You must strive not only to succeed academically but also to develop values that will prepare you for leadership and service,” she advised, urging students to cultivate discipline, integrity, intellectual curiosity, and a strong work ethic.

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