The action has been taken in response to a heartfelt press conference led by distraught medical students highlighting challenges within the School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences at the UTG,
Oumie Faal, Minister for Information and Communication at the School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences at the UTG said following a constructive meeting held in the aftermath of the students' impassioned plea, “proactive measures have been outlined to alleviate concerns” and enhance the educational experience for all.
According to her, during their meeting with the 18th Executive Council of UniGaMSA, the president of UTGSU and the minister for Higher Education, discussed the issues affecting the students, such as delay in giving lectures, lack of adequate mobility and space among others.
Madam Faal added that the committee that comprised experts and stakeholders would work “tirelessly to identify root causes and implement effective solutions to ensure seamless academic progression.
“In a bid to foster stability and continuity within the academic faculty, steps will be taken to streamline lecturer employment modes, mitigating potential disruptions and safeguarding the quality of education delivery,” she said, adding that these can be done “by addressing employment concerns head-on, making efforts aimed to create an environment conducive for teaching and learning, and free from unnecessary obstacles.” she explained.
She indicated that acknowledging the critical role of adequate learning resources in facilitating academic excellence, commitments have been made to provide essential tools and amenities to the medical school.
“The Minister encouraged UniGaMSA to consolidate and submit all proposals for consideration,” she said, adding: “Specific provisions such as projectors, smart boards, chairs, and tables will be allocated, with a particular focus on enhancing the medical school's facilities.”
Every effort would be made to equip students and educators with the resources they need to thrive,” she added.
Faal also stated that a groundbreaking development was unveiled during the meeting with the initiation of a new medical school project valued at $81 million. “Plans are underway to expedite the completion of this project within the next two years, as detailed in the project document presented during the session,” she said.
Thus, as efforts to address the challenges faced by medical students at UTG gain momentum, a sense of optimism pervades the academic community. With a firm commitment to transparency, accountability and student welfare, stakeholders stand poised to effect positive change and drive progress in the realm of medical education.
