The Tepa Nursing and Midwifery Training College (NMTC) has partnered with TIKVA Africa to launch a capacity-building programme aimed at enhancing the skills and competencies of staff and students. The initiative, under the theme “Sustaining a Culture of Professionalism,” is designed to develop leadership and professional capacities to advance the college’s vision of producing highly qualified health professionals.
During the launch event, Dr. Albert Opoku, Principal of Tepa NMTC, emphasized the importance of the programme, noting that it aligns with the Ministry of Health’s goal to upgrade nurses and midwives to degree and specialist qualification levels. He explained that the college is focused on meeting the standards set by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the healthcare industry.
“Our mission is to become a leading institution in health education, capable of awarding degrees and specialist qualifications,” Dr. Opoku said. “To achieve this, it is crucial that we build the capacity of our staff and students, ensuring they possess the leadership skills and professional knowledge necessary to excel in the healthcare field.”
The capacity-building programme kicked off with leadership training for the newly elected executives of the Students Representative Council (SRC). Dr. Opoku explained that this initiative is intended to ensure that the SRC executives are well-equipped to lead effectively and support the institution’s goals.
“The newly elected SRC leaders will play a vital role in student governance, and it is important that they are given the tools and training needed to manage their responsibilities efficiently,” he added.
Rev. Bonaventure Williamson, President of TIKVA Africa, explained that the collaboration with Tepa NMTC is part of TIKVA Africa’s broader mission to promote youth development and leadership. He highlighted that although Ghana has abundant resources, the key challenge lies in leadership and the effective management of those resources for national development.
“At TIKVA Africa, we believe that leadership starts from the grassroots level,” Rev. Williamson noted. “By investing in the capacity of young people, particularly in institutions like Tepa NMTC, we are preparing the next generation of leaders who will make a positive impact in the healthcare sector and beyond. This partnership is a step towards empowering future leaders and professionals.”
He further stressed that healthcare professionals need strong leadership skills to make critical decisions, manage healthcare systems, and provide quality care for patients. The collaboration with Tepa NMTC aims to develop these essential qualities among students and staff.
Professor Michael Amakyi, who also spoke at the event, praised the capacity-building initiative and called for continued efforts to improve infrastructure and resources at the institution. He noted that the successful implementation of degree and specialist programmes requires not only leadership training but also investment in classrooms, teaching materials, and advanced learning tools.
“As we transition into offering degree and specialist qualifications, it is crucial that we provide the necessary infrastructure and teaching resources,” Professor Amakyi said. “Equipping our staff with the knowledge and skills to teach these advanced programmes will enhance the quality of healthcare professionals produced by Tepa NMTC, ensuring they are ready to meet the growing demands of the healthcare sector.”
The capacity-building programme is expected to play a significant role in the college’s efforts to become a centre of excellence in healthcare education. By focusing on both professional and leadership development, Tepa NMTC and TIKVA Africa are working together to ensure that the institution remains at the forefront of health training in Ghana.
The partnership between Tepa NMTC and TIKVA Africa marks a pivotal moment in the development of health education in Ghana. Through this capacity-building programme, the college is well-positioned to produce world-class healthcare professionals with the leadership and professional skills needed to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. As the institution prepares to offer degree and specialist qualifications, this initiative will serve as a cornerstone in ensuring the success of its long-term goals.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie