KNUST swears in 92 newly qualified doctors

Kumasi, Nov. 25, GNA -- Professor Tsiri Agbenyega, Dean of the KNUST School of Medical Sciences (SMS), has deplored the hypocritical behaviour of some prominent and influential Ghanaians who encouraged their sons and daughters who graduated from the country's universities to seek greener pastures outside the country and turn round to speak against brain drain.

He observed that most doctors who joined the exodus to seek greener pastures were sons and daughters of Ghanaians who occupied prominent and influential positions in the country, yet they had been speaking much about the shortage of doctors and other health professionals in the country.


Speaking at the 13th Oath-Swearing ceremony of newly qualified doctors at the KNUST on Saturday, Professor Agbenyega, questioned the justification of these so called 93big people=94 for making much noise about the brain drain.


=93Why should we expect others to remain in the country when we encourage our kids to go out and make better living for themselves=94, he questioned, adding, 93there was no moral justification for all the noise we make. Charity should be made to begin at home=94, he pointed out.


Ninety-two newly qualified doctors from the KNUST and University for Development Studies (UDS) were admitted into the medical profession. They swore the Medical Oath and recited the National Anthem. The Oaths were administered byDr. K.O Adadey, Chairman of the Medical and Dental Council.


Professor Agbenyega also advised medical students who graduated from the UDS to accept appointments to teach in the school. He said the Medical School of the UDS would only be able to stand properly on its feet if its products went back to help build it. Professor Agbenyega stated that, through its alumni and other dedicated teachers, the KNUST SMS had been able to build a reputable image for the school as a centre for training high calibre of doctors and research scientists, adding that, so far, 1080 doctors had graduated from the school.

He congratulated the doctors and advised them to be humble and serve their patients with humility.


Professor Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, Vice Chancellor of the University in an address read for him, said it was only through the maintenance of the health of Ghanaians that would propel the nation into its development vision.


He, however, said rampant strike actions coupled with some unprofessional conduct of some health workers had affected quality health care delivery in the country.


Professor Adarkwa, advised the new doctors not to discriminate against any patient on the basis of age, sex, ethnicity and urged them to be guided by the Oath they had sworn.


Dr K.O Adadey, Chairman of the Medic al and Dental Council, said the Council had noted with concern the various reported cases of unethical conduct, involving some of its members and advised the new doctors to always put their patients first in all their dealings. He also urged them to abide by the code of ethics of the profession and respect the rights of their patients. 25 Nov. 06