University of Ghana Medical School

University of Ghana Medical School (UGMS) is a premier medical school located in Accra, Ghana, and is part of the University of Ghana. Established in 1962, the school has grown to become a leading institution in medical education and research in Ghana and West Africa. It is situated within the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, the largest teaching hospital in Ghana, providing students with a rich environment for clinical training and research.

History

The University of Ghana Medical School was founded in 1962 with the aim of providing quality medical education and to address the healthcare needs of Ghana. It started with a small group of students and has since expanded in size and scope, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine and related health sciences.

Programs

UGMS offers a six-year Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) program, which is the main undergraduate program. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of medical sciences and clinical skills. In addition to the MBChB program, UGMS offers postgraduate programs in various medical specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and public health.

Undergraduate Programs

• Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Postgraduate Programs

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) in various specialties
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Master of Science (MSc) in Health Sciences
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences

Facilities

UGMS is co-located with the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, providing students with access to a wide range of clinical facilities and patient populations. The school also boasts state-of-the-art lecture halls, laboratories, and libraries. The medical library is one of the largest in Africa, offering a vast collection of medical textbooks, journals, and electronic resources.

Research

Research is a key component of the mission at UGMS. The school is involved in various research projects aimed at solving health problems in Ghana and beyond. Areas of research include infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, reproductive health, and health systems. UGMS collaborates with local and international institutions to advance medical research and education.

Affiliations

UGMS is affiliated with several hospitals and health institutions across Ghana, providing students with diverse clinical training opportunities. These affiliations also facilitate collaborative research and community outreach programs.

Alumni

The alumni of UGMS are well-regarded both in Ghana and internationally. Many have gone on to have successful careers in healthcare, academia, and public service. The alumni network plays an active role in supporting the school and its current students.

Challenges and Future Directions

Like many medical schools in Africa, UGMS faces challenges such as funding constraints, faculty shortages, and infrastructure needs. However, the school is committed to overcoming these challenges through strategic planning, partnerships, and innovation. Future directions include expanding its programs, enhancing research capacity, and improving healthcare delivery through education and training.