April 2, 2026
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) has formally ushered 252 students into the clinical phase of their training during its 5th Joint White Coat Ceremony for the School of Medicine (SOM) and the School of Pharmacy (SOP). The event, held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at the Cedi Auditorium on the main campus at Sokode-Lokoe, Ho marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of the students.
The White Coat Ceremony, a globally recognized rite of passage in health professional education, symbolizes the transition from pre-clinical studies to clinical practice. It underscores students’ commitment to professionalism, ethical conduct, and patient-centered care.
Delivering her remarks as the Chairperson of the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of UHAS, Professor Lydia Aziato, congratulated the inductees for their resilience and dedication, particularly in overcoming challenges posed by limited facilities. She urged them to embrace lifelong learning, cultivate empathy and discipline and carve out professional niches within the health sector.
The Guest Speaker for the occasion, Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, an eminent pathologist and Chairman of the Medical and Dental Council of Ghana, delivered the keynote address on the theme “One Coat, Many Callings: Professionalism, Purpose and Service in Healthcare.” He emphasized that scientific competence must be paired with empathy and ethical standards, while teamwork and interprofessional collaboration remain essential to effective healthcare delivery.
Professor Akosa further highlighted the importance of professionalism in both conduct and appearance, reminding students that public trust hinges on how healthcare practitioners present themselves. “Professionalism means doing the right thing, all the time, at the highest level, to all manner of people,” he stated. He encouraged students that upon graduation, they should be ready to serve at whichever location their posting will send them, noting that meaningful opportunities often arise in unexpected places.
The students expressed gratitude to their lecturers, mentors and families for their unwavering support throughout the pre-clinical phase.
The ceremony was graced by senior university officials, including Pro-Vice Chancellor Frank Edwin, Registrar Yaa Amankwaa Opuni, Deans, Directors and other distinguished guests.
This year’s theme reinforces UHAS’ mission to champion collaborative healthcare delivery in Ghana and beyond, positioning the institution as a leader in shaping the future of medical and pharmaceutical education.