AUST, Health Ministry Partner on Healthcare Training

The President of the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, FAS, along with a delegation from the university, paid a courtesy visit to the  Honorable Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, to discuss potential partnerships in healthcare training and capacity building.

In his speech,  Professor Onwualu congratulated the Hon.Minister on his appointment as the coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare and on his achievements since he assumed office.

He commended his efforts in implementing key health sector initiatives reiterated AUST’s commitment to advancing education and innovation, maintaining that the institution, which has an international reputation, is now expanding into executive training, innovation hubs, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs.

He expressed the university’s interest in collaborating with professional health sectors, citing an existing partnership with MODZ UK Health Limited.

According to him, AUST aims to develop training programs focused on upskilling healthcare professionals and sought the Ministry’s support and approval for these initiatives.

Dr. Kemi Lawanson, MODZ UK Ltd reaffirmed the importance of healthcare management trainings noting that a key challenge in the sector is the lack of structured leadership and resource management.

She suggested that the Ministry could facilitate connections with Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the training programs.

Lawanson further proposed that participants in the training programs could receive certifications jointly issued by AUST and the Federal Ministry of Health.

In his response, the Hon.Minister for Health , Dr. Ali Pate welcomed the initiative and commended AUST’s structured approach to education and training.

He harped on the importance of equipping individuals with the necessary management and leadership skills to optimize healthcare resources.

The Minister expressed confidence in AUST’s capabilities and pledged to continue discussions on formalizing the collaboration.

Professor Onwualu thanked the Minister for his time and expressed optimism about a productive partnership between AUST and the Ministry of Health to enhance healthcare training and service delivery.