The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) has successfully graduated the second set of students from its Caregiver Academy, further reinforcing its commitment to addressing healthcare challenges in Nigeria.
The graduation ceremony, held recently at the MRC Auditorium of the Hospital witnessed the graduation of 137 students.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, while congratulating the graduates on their remarkable achievements, emphasised that the establishment of the Caregiver Academy is a strategic initiative under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, aimed at strengthening and complementing the healthcare workforce in Lagos
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, noted that amidst the growing shortage of healthcare providers, the government is making efforts to increase the number of skilled professionals at all levels of patient care. He commended LASUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, for his outstanding contributions to making LASUTH a premier healthcare institution.
The Medical Director of LASUTH, Prof. Fabamwo congratulated the graduates and commended their families for their support. He described the event as another landmark achievement in LASUTH’s history, with notable figures in the healthcare sector in attendance.
Reflecting on the academy’s journey, he admitted that while the programme’s popularity had exceeded expectations, LASUTH had meticulously designed it to ensure excellence. One of its unique attributes, he noted, was the inclusion of an international certification from John Academy in the United Kingdom, in addition to the LASUTH certificate.
He added that this global recognition equips graduates with the qualifications to work globally. Furthermore, he emphasised the academy’s comprehensive curriculum, which includes critical components such as the legal aspects of caregiving to ensure well-rounded professional training.
In her goodwill message, Dr. (Mrs.) Atinuke Onayiga, Chairman of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, described the graduation as a significant milestone for the second set of students. She lauded LASUTH’s dedication to empowering caregivers, acknowledging them as the backbone of the healthcare system.
She also commended Prof. Fabamwo for his visionary leadership in establishing multiple training schools within LASUTH, reinforcing its status as Nigeria’s leading tertiary healthcare institution.
Delivering the valedictory speech, Oghenekaro Helen Uvietobore, who emerged as the best graduating student, expressed her deep gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the programme. She particularly appreciated the Chief Medical Director for his mentorship and support, describing the programme as well-structured and impactful.
Uvietobore extended her appreciation to the lecturers and the head of the school for their dedication to equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Dignitaries present at the event include the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, represented by Mrs. Sarah Balogun; The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State, Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, represented by the Director, Medical Administration Training & Programmes, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho; Commissioner IV of the Health Service Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Ololade Fadipe; the Chief Executive Officer of Stripes’ Home, Mrs. Akinbi; Chief Executive Officer of Shepherd Hills, Mrs. Oluwatosin Shodunke; Director of Clinical Services and Training of LASUTH, Prof. Adebowale O. Adekoya; Director of Hospital Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Jelili Babatunde Oyekan; Director of Finance and Accounts of LASUTH, Mrs. Titilope Alaka and Director of Nursing Services, LASUTH, Mrs. Adebola Ebinisi Aina among others.