The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) proudly celebrated the graduation of its inaugural class from the Caregiver Academy on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.
The ceremony took place at the MRC Auditorium of the hospital, amidst an atmosphere of excitement and accomplishment.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, highlighted the Academy’s mission to deliver exceptional training that empowers individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide compassionate and professional care to those in need. He pointed out a critical gap in the caregiving profession, noting that unskilled Nigerians have been seeking opportunities abroad, often with dire consequences.
“To address this, LASUTH has sought international affiliation for its training program, allowing students to enhance their qualifications through online courses from the UK Academy, ultimately earning an additional international certificate of competence,” Prof. Fabamwo explained.
He extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and acknowledged the unwavering support of the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who has been an advocate for the program since its inception. Prof. Fabamwo commended the faculty members of the Caregiver Academy, urging the new caregivers to approach their responsibilities with empathy and compassion.
Dr. Atinuke Onayiga, Chairman of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, also addressed the graduates, praising their dedication and hard work. She reminded them that they represent the first cohort from this esteemed institution and encouraged them to embody the “Excellent Spirit of Lagos.” “You are now ambassadors of the values that this state stands for, and you have a responsibility to uphold the high standards that Lagos is renowned for,” Dr. Onayiga emphasized.
Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser on Health to the Lagos State Governor, congratulated the graduates and their families. She underscored the crucial role caregivers play in the healthcare landscape, highlighting that their contributions extend beyond clinical environments. Dr. Ogunyemi encouraged graduates to leverage their experiences and consider further education if they wish to pursue careers in nursing or medicine.
In his remarks, Prof. Akin Abayomi commended the innovative initiative behind the LASUTH Caregiver Academy, celebrating the graduates’ achievements. He urged them to demonstrate empathy, decorum, and attentiveness in their caregiving roles, emphasizing the significance of patient engagement.
The establishment of the LASUTH Caregiver Academy aims to bridge the gap in healthcare support services for the elderly and infirm, while also providing hope to young individuals in the job market by equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge. This initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly in the areas of Health and Environment, and is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to rapidly increase the number of healthcare workers in response to the ‘Japa’ syndrome affecting citizens.
As the first graduates step into the world of caregiving, they do so armed with the training, values, and determination necessary to make a profound impact in the lives of those they serve. The future of healthcare in Lagos looks brighter with the emergence of these dedicated professionals.