The Bolgatanga Midwifery Training College has announced plans to introduce a four-year degree program. This announcement was made by the Principal of the College, Amalba Christiana, during a matriculation ceremony welcoming 217 students for the 2024/2025 academic year. The college received 536 applications, but only 217 candidates were admitted due to high demand and limited resources.
Madam Amalba emphasized the increasing demand for quality midwifery education in the country, noting that while many applicants met the qualifications, the college had to make difficult choices due to limited staff, classroom space, and student accommodations. Ahead of the introduction of the degree program, Madam Amalba appealed for support to accommodate the anticipated growth.
“I take this opportunity to appeal to all interested parties—investors, business owners, alumni, and stakeholders both within and outside the region—to support addressing the urgent need for additional hostels and classrooms,” she stated.
While acknowledging the role midwives play in maternal and child health, Madam Amalba reminded the future midwives, who will be at the forefront of this critical field, to embrace a responsibility that “encompasses not only the physical aspects of childbirth but also the emotional and psychological support that women and families increasingly seek.”
The Board Chair of the College, Dr. Hellen Akolgo-Azupogo, urged the students to manage their time and social interactions wisely to avoid negatively affecting their studies. She admonished them to respect their tutors and not engage in social vices that could jeopardize their future. On behalf of the Advisory Board, she congratulated the students for choosing the Midwifery Training College, Bolgatanga, and wished them success during their time on campus.
Bernard Anankor, the Regional Chief Nursing Officer, called on the midwifery students to embody the fear of God, drawing inspiration from Shiphrah and Puah, two midwives in the Book of Exodus who, out of their reverence for God, refused Pharaoh’s orders to kill all male Hebrew babies at birth.
“If, through your negligence or conduct, you contribute to the loss of a woman’s or baby’s life, it means you lack the fear of God,” he warned.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Hafiz Bin Salih, commended the midwifery profession, describing it as a calling with profound responsibilities, high standards, and a strong sense of public service.
“As midwives in the making, compassion will be your greatest tool. You will encounter patients from all walks of life, each with their unique stories and needs, and you must approach each with empathy and understanding. Your ability to listen, comfort, and support will make a lasting impact on their healing process,” said Awini John Muniru, Assistant Director of the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, reading a speech on behalf of the minister.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | Joshua Asaah | Bolgatanga
