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A total of 169 level 400 medical students of the School of Medical Sciences of the University of Cape Coast (UCCSMS) have started their medical clinical training.
To mark the beginning of the training, the School organised its 15th White Coat ceremony as they were formally robed in the conventional doctor’s white coat.
They were led by Prof. Ivy K. Ekem, a former Dean of UCCSMS, to take the UCCSMS oath.
The event signifies the start of the student’s journey into practical medicine.
The Provost of the College of Health and Allied Sciences (CoHAS), Prof. Martins Ekor, in his address, expressed the commitment of the University towards equipping the medical students with the knowledge and skills in the current challenging world.
He paid tribute to all those who had contributed towards the growth of the medical school.
He argued that, the significance of the ceremony, was a demonstration of a transition to clinical education and symbolises the journey in practical medicine.
According to him, the event fosters a sense of community among faculty, students and medical practitioners.
The College, Prof. Ekor stated has established a School of Public Health in addition to the upgrading of the Department of Optometry and Vision Science to the status of a school.
He announced plans of the College to introduce more demand-driven professional and academic programmes at the University.
In an address, the Dean of UCCSMS, Prof. Sebastian Eliason, expressed the commitment of the school towards the training of medical doctors to meet the demand of today’s challenging times.
To that end, he stated, the medical students were doctors who were being equipped with 21st century skills and competencies coupled with comprehensive curricula.
That, he said, involved the adoption of creativity, critical thinking, technology and leadership among others.
He affirmed that: “UCCSMS provides the enabling environment that nurtures students to make a difference and be the best among their peers wherever they may find themselves in the world.”
Prof. Eliason further said: “With our community based experience and service and our problem based learning, together with our ICT and simulation, I believe that you will emerge as the best and among the best globally.”
He noted that the ceremony symbolised the commitment of the students to professionalism, ethical practice and the compassionate care for patients.
Dr Joseph Kojo Tambil, the Medical Director of Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, in his remarks, admonished the students to ensure that they follow all standards in relation to the medical profession.
He explained that, they must ensure that the rights of patients were protected at all times as patients have right to privacy.
He further urged them to refrain from any form of discrimination among patients.
He also called on them to adopt a good team spirit, saying, “As a good doctor, you must be a good and active team member who seeks help from others and help others.”
FROM DAVID O. YARBOI-TETTEH, CAPE COAST
