FG Boosts Institution’s Efforts To Tackle Healthcare Manpower Shortage

By Damian Duruiheoma, Enugu

The Federal Government through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund has demonstrated its readiness to support the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu (FIAHSE) in its efforts to tackle Nigeria’s healthcare manpower shortage.

The vice chancellor of the university, Prof. John Emaimo, disclosed that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund  was already supporting the institution with critical infrastructure as part of efforts to actualise the goal of the university.

Emaimo disclosed this during a press briefing and facility tour at the weekend, where the university opened its facilities to the public for the first time since its establishment in 2023.

He stated that TETFund’s intervention covered key areas such as laboratory equipment, hostel development and other infrastructural projects aimed at strengthening teaching and practical training.

Emaimo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the institution,stating that the move  was part of efforts to address challenges in healthcare manpower development and the growing brain drain in the sector.

Emaimo described the institution as “a testament to transformation, resilience, and forward-thinking leadership,” recalling its evolution from a diploma-awarding Dental College into a specialised university focused on allied health sciences.

He disclosed that the transition followed a presidential directive approving the institution’s conversion, reflecting the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare education and service delivery in the country.

“FUAHSE is now positioned as Nigeria’s dedicated institution for allied health sciences, with a focus on producing graduates who are both academically sound and practically equipped for the evolving demands of the health sector,” he said.

The vice chancellor further disclosed that the National Universities Commission, NUC,  had approved 16 academic programmes for the university spanning clinical sciences, basic medical sciences, public health, engineering and technology.

He listed the approved programmes as Nursing Sciences, Medical Laboratory Science, Radiography, Dental Technology, Physiotherapy, Public Health and Biomedical Engineering.

“Our strength lies not only in the breadth of our programmes but in the depth of our training. At FUAHSE, we emphasize practical, hands-on learning to ensure graduates transition seamlessly from the classroom to real-world healthcare settings,” Emaimo stated.

He however, described funding and infrastructure as some of the challenges associated with new institutions but maintained that the university remained committed to building a world-class centre for allied health education.

The vice chancellor noted that the institution’s vision aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda to expand Nigeria’s healthcare workforce and improve healthcare delivery nationwide.

“We appreciate your presence and your role in amplifying our vision to the world,” the vice chancellor told journalists. “Together, we can shape a healthier future for Nigeria,” he stated.