Medical education in Ghana

Medical Education in Ghana refers to the training of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, dentists, and other allied health professionals in Ghana, a country located in West Africa. The system encompasses various levels of training, ranging from undergraduate education to postgraduate training, across several institutions within the country.

History

The history of medical education in Ghana dates back to the colonial era, with the establishment of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in 1923, which played a pivotal role in the training of healthcare professionals. However, it was not until 1962 that the University of Ghana Medical School, the first medical school in Ghana, was established. This marked the beginning of formal medical education in the country, providing a structured curriculum for the training of medical doctors.

Medical Schools

As of the current date, Ghana has several medical schools that are recognized for their contributions to medical education and research. These include:

• University of Ghana Medical School – Located in Accra, it is the oldest medical school in Ghana.
• Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology School of Medical Sciences – Located in Kumasi, it is known for its research and innovation in medical education.
• University for Development Studies School of Medicine and Health Sciences – Located in Tamale, it focuses on community-based education and primary healthcare.
• University of Cape Coast School of Medical Sciences – Known for its emphasis on problem-based learning and community engagement.
• Accra College of Medicine – A private medical school in Accra focusing on excellence in medical education and healthcare delivery.

Curriculum

The curriculum for medical education in Ghana typically spans six years for undergraduate medical programs, leading to the award of Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). The curriculum is divided into pre-clinical and clinical phases, focusing on basic sciences in the initial years and clinical rotations in the latter years. Postgraduate training and specialization in various fields of medicine are also available and are conducted under the auspices of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons.

Challenges

Medical education in Ghana faces several challenges, including inadequate funding, limited infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified teaching staff. Additionally, the country grapples with the brain drain phenomenon, where trained healthcare professionals emigrate in search of better opportunities abroad.

Future Directions

Efforts are underway to address the challenges facing medical education in Ghana. These include increasing investment in medical education infrastructure, enhancing the capacity of faculty through training and development programs, and implementing policies to retain healthcare professionals within the country.

See Also

• Healthcare in Ghana
• Education in Ghana