University of Dschang sends out first batch of medical doctors, pharmacists.

The students, 41 of them in the domain of medicine and 21 others in pharmacy, trained at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, recently defended their research projects.

Before the start of the defences, the President of the Board of Directors of University, Prof Paul Celestin Ndebiyembe, and the Rector, Prof Roger Tsafack Nanfosso, hailed the milestone covered in the training of health professionals.

The authorities hailed the defense of theses by the students, describing it as historic achievement while encouraging them to pursue their careers with dedication and excellence.

They were accompanied by the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof Prof Siméon Pierre Choukem, who said he’s proud they were able to come this far. 

Recalling the principles of training in the faculty, Prof Choukem, said: “This first batch was trained with discipline, rigour and values”.

He went on to add that since its creation, the faculty has been committed to providing high-quality training tailored to the specific needs of Cameroonian society. 

Students followed a demanding curriculum combining theoretical, practical, clinical internship, and research in medical and pharmaceutical sciences. 

The internships they undertook in hospitals centres helped build their capacities. The new health professionals, official said, are ready to meet the challenges of the Cameroonian health system. 

“Their training prepares them to work in a variety of environments, from urban hospitals to rural health centres. They will have the opportunity to combat endemic diseases, improve access to quality care, and develop new medical solutions tailored to the needs of the population,” the Dean of the Faculty said.

Following the defense of the projects, the University is due to programme the graduation ceremony which will witness the taking of the Hippocratic oath for Doctors and the Galen oath for Pharmacists.

Created by presidential decree on November 24, 2017, the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Dschang is today contributing in the training of health professionals in the country

Prospects for the future

The University in a statement said the release of the first batch is the beginning of a long adventure for the faculty.

The institution continues to improve its infrastructure, diversify its programmes and establish partnerships with other national and international institutions. 

Its aim is to become a centre of excellence in medical and pharmaceutical education, attracting students and researchers from all over the world. The first batch marks a historic step in the development of medical education in Cameroon. 

These new professionals are expected to play a key role in improving the country’s health conditions, reflecting the vision and efforts of the Cameroonian authorities to strengthen the health system and promote access to quality care for all.

This story was first published in The Guardian Post issue N0:3173 of Friday July 19, 2024