The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) has officially inducted 252 students from its School of Medicine (SOM) and School of Pharmacy (SOP) into the clinical phase of their academic training during its 5th Joint White Coat Ceremony.
The significant event, held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Cedi Auditorium on the university’s main campus at Sokode-Lokoe in Ho, marked a defining moment in the professional journey of the students as they transition from pre-clinical studies to hands-on clinical practice.
The White Coat Ceremony, a globally recognised rite of passage in health professional education, symbolizes not only the students’ entry into clinical training but also their commitment to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethical conduct, and patient-centered care. The ceremony continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities that come with the medical and pharmaceutical professions.
Chairing the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of UHAS, Professor Lydia Aziato, commended the students for their resilience, dedication, and perseverance throughout their pre-clinical training. She acknowledged the challenges they encountered, particularly those relating to limited infrastructure and resources, and praised their determination to excel despite such constraints.
Professor Aziato urged the inductees to embrace lifelong learning, cultivate empathy, and maintain discipline in their professional conduct. She further encouraged them to identify and develop areas of specialization that would enable them to make meaningful contributions to Ghana’s healthcare delivery system and the global health space.
Delivering the keynote address, the Guest Speaker, Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, an eminent pathologist and Chairman of the Medical and Dental Council of Ghana, spoke on the theme, “One Coat, Many Callings: Professionalism, Purpose and Service in Healthcare.”
In his address, Professor Akosa emphasized that excellence in healthcare goes beyond academic knowledge, stressing the need for empathy, integrity, and strict adherence to ethical standards. He noted that the trust reposed in healthcare professionals by the public is largely shaped by their conduct, attitude, and overall professionalism.
“Professionalism means doing the right thing, all the time, at the highest level, to all manner of people,” he stated, urging the students to remain committed to ethical practice regardless of circumstances.
He further highlighted the importance of teamwork and interprofessional collaboration in delivering quality healthcare, noting that modern healthcare systems thrive on the coordinated efforts of diverse professionals. He encouraged the students to respect the roles of other healthcare practitioners and to work harmoniously in the interest of patients.
Touching on national service and postings, Professor Akosa advised the students to be prepared to serve in any part of the country upon completion of their training. According to him, some of the most impactful and rewarding professional experiences often emerge from unexpected and underserved locations.
The ceremony also provided an opportunity for the students to express their heartfelt appreciation to their lecturers, mentors, and families for their unwavering support throughout their academic journey thus far. Many described the occasion as both humbling and inspiring, reaffirming their commitment to the noble calling of healthcare.
The event was attended by key officials of the university, including Pro-Vice Chancellor Frank Edwin, Registrar Yaa Amankwaa Opuni, as well as deans, directors, faculty members, and other distinguished guests.
This year’s ceremony reinforced UHAS’ dedication to promoting excellence and collaboration in healthcare education. By nurturing a new generation of well-trained, ethical, and compassionate professionals, the university continues to position itself as a leading institution in advancing medical and pharmaceutical education in Ghana and beyond.
