Haruna Iddrisu with some officials
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has pledged government’s support for Family Health University (FHU), particularly in the areas of research, medical education, and training healthcare professionals.
Speaking at the official launch of the Family Health University after obtaining a Presidential Charter in Accra, the minister commended the vision and leadership of Professor Enyonam Yao Kwawukume, whose dedication to medical education has significantly impacted Ghana’s healthcare landscape.
Mr. Iddrisu, who reflected on the university’s journey, acknowledged the pivotal role of President John Dramani Mahama, who witnessed the early development of Family Health College, now transformed into a full-fledged university.
The minister also acknowledged FHU’s achievements, in helping address the deficit of medical practitioners through the training of over 100 doctors and more than 1,000 nurses, who are currently serving in various parts of the country.
The Education Minister also reiterated government’s commitment to promoting academic freedom without interfering in university governance, while assuring them of plans by government to reconstitute the councils of various universities in the country soon.
He also announced the inauguration of the National Research Fund, which will support academic research, including projects initiated by FHU.
Prof. Enyonam Yao Kwawukume, Founder and Vice-Chancellor of Family Health University (FHU), also highlighted the university’s growth from a college to Ghana’s first private university with a medical school, reflecting its commitment to healthcare delivery, research advancement, and global competitiveness.
He also emphasised FHU’s inclusion in the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), which allows its graduates to take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
Prof. Kwawukume, who called on the government to collaborate with FHU in training more doctors locally to meet Ghana’s healthcare needs, also highlighted the university’s growing international collaborations with institutions like the University of Michigan and University of Virginia, which facilitate student and faculty exchanges.
Mr. Iddrisu lauded FHU’s research initiatives, particularly its efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic when it produced FDA-approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline workers, while assuring the university of government’s support to continue its work, including expanding research and training programmes.