July 28, 2026
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) has affirmed its commitment to global engagement and inclusive education with the celebration of its 4th International Day, held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the Cedi Auditorium on the University’s main campus at Sokode-Lokoe, Ho, Ghana.
The event held under the theme “Internationalization of Higher Education: Celebrating Cultural Diversity Among Students and Staff,” brought together students, faculty, international partners, diplomats and alumni for a vibrant showcase of cultures through music, dance, exhibitions and international cuisine.
Welcoming participants, the Dean of International Programmes, Professor Elvis Tarkang, described the celebration as a reflection of UHAS' dedication to intercultural understanding, academic collaboration and global engagement. He noted that the diversity of students, staff and partners continues to enrich teaching, learning and research at the University.
The Vice Chancellor of UHAS, Professor Lydia Aziato, highlighted UHAS' internationalization journey, tracing it to the University's establishment in 2012 when international faculty support was key to securing accreditation for the School of Medicine. She paid tribute to pioneering academic staff from Cuba, Nigeria and India who contributed to the development of programmes including Medicine, Sports and Exercise Medicine, Speech and Hearing Sciences and Prosthetics and Orthotics. She also noted that UHAS' international partnerships have increased from 81 to 94 institutions from last academic year.
Professor Aziato reaffirmed internationalization, diversity and inclusion as strategic priorities for the University, announcing plans to introduce language proficiency programmes in English, French and Ewe, alongside continuous professional development opportunities for staff. She cited the University's postgraduate certificate programme for African professionals, which this year attracted participants from 17 countries, as evidence of UHAS' growing international reach.
Speaking on behalf of UNESCO Ghana Country Representative - Mr. Edmond Moukala, Mr. Prosper Nyavor, Head of Education Programme, commended UHAS for placing cultural diversity at the centre of its internationalization agenda. He underscored the importance of developing health professionals who are not only clinically competent but also culturally responsive and globally minded, and highlighted UNESCO's ongoing collaboration with UHAS through a smart-classroom initiative.
Presenting the state of internationalization at UHAS, Mrs. Dominica Anumu, Senior Assistant Registrar at UHAS Office of International Programmes, reported that the University currently hosts students from countries including France, Nigeria, Benin, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the United States. She noted that UHAS maintains 94 international collaborations, with partners in North America and Europe accounting for the largest share. Recent student mobility programmes have seen UHAS students pursue academic opportunities in Germany, Turkey and Italy, while staff exchanges have taken academics to institutions in Turkey, Canada and many other places.
Delivering the keynote address virtually, Dr. Carlien Jooste of South Africa's Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in South Africa called on higher education institutions to embrace strategic internationalization that promotes meaningful intercultural engagement rather than focusing solely on student mobility and enrolment figures.
The celebration also featured contributions from international students and alumni. UHAS alumnus and former NUGS President, Mr. Farouk Omar Mohammed, who travelled from the United Kingdom to attend the programme, praised the University's role in preparing graduates for success both in Ghana and abroad. He revealed that a good number of UHAS alumni are currently living and working in the United Kingdom and Ireland, many occupying specialist and leadership positions.
The event was marked by colourful cultural displays, performances and exhibitions representing Ghana, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other countries within the UHAS community. Guests also received information on international study opportunities from organisations including Germany's DAAD and Campus France.
The ceremony was attended by the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Frank Edwin, Acting Registrar, Dr. Cedric B. Dorkenoo, Deans, Directors, heads of security agencies and religious leaders.
The 4th UHAS International Day concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening global partnerships, promoting cultural exchange and advancing inclusive education as key drivers of innovation and sustainable development in higher education.
