Accra: Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the Minister of Health, has appealed to nurses and midwives contemplating overseas employment to commit to ethical migration practices. He emphasized the importance of ethical migration to safeguard against exploitation by unscrupulous agencies or traffickers, which could exploit their professional ambitions. This appeal was conveyed through a speech delivered on his behalf by Dr. Kwasi Asabre, the Director of Human Resources at the Ministry of Health, during the induction of 51,773 nurses and midwives into Ghana’s healthcare system.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Okoe Boye explained that the Government of Ghana is collaborating with countries like Barbados to establish safe, legitimate, and transparent migration pathways for healthcare professionals. ‘We have been working diligently with our international partners to provide you with the necessary information and protection so that you can pursue opportunities abroad without compromising your rights and integrity,’ he adde
d.
The Health Minister also urged nurses and midwives to think beyond traditional employment within government or established institutions, emphasizing the numerous entrepreneurial opportunities within the healthcare sector. He suggested exploring ventures such as private clinics, health consulting firms, or innovations in health technology, urging them to consider these as viable career paths. ‘While government jobs are a key source of employment, relying solely on government positions may limit your potential. The future is entrepreneurial, and I urge you to explore ways in which you can carve out your path, create job opportunities, and contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s healthcare system,’ Dr. Okoe Boye stated.
The government assured the new inductees of ongoing support and encouraged them to face challenges with confidence. The inductees, comprising Nurse Assistants, Basic and Post-Basic Nurses, and Midwives, had qualified in November 2022, 2023, and April 2024. The induction ceremony
was conducted across four regions: Tamale, Sunyani, Cape Coast, and Accra.
Dr. Josephine Kyei, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Public Health Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Ghana, highlighted the critical role of nurses and midwives in healthcare. She urged the inductees to make a positive impact on their clients, embrace challenges, and practice tolerance. Dr. Kyei stressed the importance of continuous learning and growth, given the rapid advancements in medical science and technology, and encouraged the new professionals to see themselves as leaders, educators, and advocates in health policy.
Mrs. Philomina A.N. Woolley, the Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (N and MC), urged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct. She emphasized the value of compassion, patience, and resilience in overcoming challenges and making a significant impact in healthcare. Mrs. Woolley also promised the N and MC’s ongoing support in promotin
g education and professional development, urging the nurses and midwives to engage in continuous professional development and strive for excellence in their practice.