The University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) in Ondo State has formally inducted 32 pioneer graduates of Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O). This achievement positions UNIMED as the first state university in Nigeria to offer this specialised programme. The induction ceremony took place at the Oladipo Akinkugbe Hall on the Laje Campus of the university.
Historic Milestone for Medical Rehabilitation
The institution emphasised that the event marks a historic milestone in Nigeria's medical rehabilitation sector. It is expected to reduce the country's dependence on foreign-trained specialists and address the increasing demand for mobility solutions. The dean of the Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation, Prof. Owolawi, described the occasion as a major achievement for the institution and the healthcare sector. He noted that the graduates have been equipped with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to restore mobility, confidence, and dignity to individuals living with limb loss and other mobility challenges.
Call for Professionalism and Ethical Practice
The vice chancellor of the university, Prof. Ebunoluwa Adejuyigbe, represented by the deputy vice chancellor, Prof. Patrick Osho, urged the inductees to remain committed to professionalism and ethical practice. She stressed that the profession demands the highest standards of competence, integrity, and empathy. She further emphasised that the new practitioners must view their work as fundamentally rooted in service and restoration.
The Registrar of the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Board of Nigeria (MRTB), Prof. Rufai Yusuf Ahmad, commended UNIMED for pioneering comprehensive rehabilitation training in the country. He stated that the university has created a unique platform where all medical rehabilitation programmes can thrive together, an achievement that will significantly strengthen healthcare delivery nationwide. He added, "Prosthetics and orthotics is a profession rooted in service and restoration. You must uphold the highest standards of competence, integrity, and empathy in improving the lives of patients. UNIMED has provided a platform where all medical rehabilitation programmes can thrive together. This will significantly strengthen healthcare delivery in the country."
Induction Lecture Highlights
Delivering the induction lecture, Dr Kingsley Onwukamuche charged the new professionals to uphold integrity, compassion, and excellence in their practice. He stressed that their profession offers hope and renewed dignity to persons with disabilities. He urged the inductees to serve as advocates for inclusive healthcare policies and to leverage their training to fill critical gaps in Nigeria's rehabilitation system.
