Veep urges new doctors to serve underserved communities

Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on Ghana's newest medical doctors to commit themselves to communities where health services remain scarce, emphasising that their training represents a national responsibility rather than a path defined by convenience.

Addressing the 10th Anniversary and Sixth Congregation of the Accra College of Medicine (ACM) in Accra on Saturday, she reminded the graduates that the country expects them to help bridge the most pressing gaps in access to health care.

"I remind you that the privilege of your training comes with a duty to save, not where it is easiest, but where you are most needed.

"You are entering a profession built on service, courage and equity. Let your choices reflect not just your ambitions, but your commitment to the oath. That is to go where suffering is, to heal where healing is scarce, and to honour the trust Ghana has placed in your hand," she said.

A total of 23 students received their Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degrees, formally joining the medical workforce. Outstanding students also received awards for exceptional performance.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged the graduates to acknowledge the support of parents, faculty and mentors who guided their academic journey, adding that ACM's ethos of empathy, integrity, leadership and service should continue to shape their careers.

She commended the college for a decade of "purposeful training" grounded in compassion and innovation. She highlighted the school's transition from a modest concept into a fully accredited institution producing doctors serving in hospitals across the country.

A notable achievement, she said, was ACM's inclusive admissions model, which created opportunities for passionate students who did not meet competitive cut-off points for public medical schools.

"By recognising potential where others must place limitations, ACM has shown us that excellence can come from combining nurturing with persever