By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, April 10, GNA – The Accra School of Hygiene has officially launched its centenary celebrations, marking 10 decades of excellence in training environmental and public health professionals in Ghana.
The event, held at the school’s premises, brought together government officials, health professionals, alumni, students, and stakeholders to commemorate the institution’s legacy and chart a path for its future.
On the theme, “A Century of Hygiene: Reviewing the Past, Refining the Future”, the ceremony highlighted the school’s pivotal role in Ghana’s public health sector since its establishment in 1925 as the nation’s oldest public health training institution.
Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Minister of Health, in a speech read on his behalf, praised the school for its unwavering commitment to producing skilled environmental health officers, occupational health specialists, and sanitation professionals.
“For a century, this institution has been at the forefront of safeguarding public health, enforcing sanitation laws, and mitigating environmental health risks.”
“The recent introduction of the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health and Sanitation further demonstrates its dedication to innovation and excellence,” he said.
The Minister also acknowledged the school’s alignment with national and global health goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on clean water, sanitation, and good health.
Mr Smile Kobina Ametsi Principal of the Accra School of Hygiene, in his welcome address, outlined the institution’s growth over the years, from offering certificate programmes to now providing degree and diploma courses.
“We have expanded our training portfolio to include a BSc in Environmental Health and Sanitation, as well as new diploma programmes in Occupational Therapy and Occupational Health and Safety,” he said.
He further revealed plans to introduce additional undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including a Bachelor of Science(BSc) in Health Promotion and a Master’s in Environmental Health, pending accreditation.
Despite its achievements, the Principal highlighted pressing challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited lecture halls, and bureaucratic hurdles in staff transfers from local government to the Ministry of Health.
“We appeal to the government, alumni, and development partners to support our vision of becoming a centre of excellence in public health training,” he said.
The centenary will be marked by a series of activities throughout the year, including health outreach programmes, academic symposiums, and alumni engagements.
The school also aims to secure a new site for a state-of-the-art training facility to meet 21st-century health demands.
As part of the launch, the school matriculated its second batch of BSc Environmental Health students, reinforcing its commitment to producing the next generation of public health leaders.
GNA
SOF