National Universities Commission has stated that any student intending to study medicine will henceforth spend a minimum of 10 to 11 years for the programme.
Prof. Julius Okojie, The Executive Secretary, reported this while delivering a lecture at the matriculation and inauguration of the University of Medical Science, Ondo, Ondo State.
The lecture titled, ‘Development of Medical Education: Prospects and Challenges’, Okojie, represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary of the commission, Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, said the move became imperative in order to enhance the students to mature psychologically for the profession.
He also added, “The new benchmark still retains the fundamental learning objectives that seek to achieve national development goals as well as a sustainable development goal.”
In stressing the need for adequate funding of medical training and practice, Okojie urged the university authorities to ensure the judicious use of the money earmarked for the development of the institution.
According Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, urged the university to leverage on the benefits of the medical complex around it to advance efforts in research and training.
Mimiko, who is the Visitor to school, also expressed optimism that the institution would be a leading platform for raising crops of competent individuals in the various health disciplines.
According to The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Friday Okonofua, He said that the institution would achieve its objectives, appealed to all well-meaning Nigerians to support its ‘Friends of UNIMED Funds’ initiative, targeted at raising N1bn for the school.
