The Principal of the Nursing Training College (NTC) in Bolgatanga, Mr. Williams Sebil, has raised alarm over systemic neglect of nurse tutors and pressing infrastructural deficits affecting nursing education in Ghana, urging swift national attention to avert a potential decline in healthcare training standards.
Speaking at a matriculation ceremony for first- and second-year students, Mr. Sebil lamented the lack of recognition and delayed promotions facing nurse tutors, despite their crucial role in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. “Nurse tutors are central to our healthcare system, yet they remain invisible in national awards and face years-long delays in promotion,” he said, calling for parity with educators in basic and senior high schools.
The principal warned that the growing demoralization among staff could lead to increased brain drain, undermining the country’s health sector. He also highlighted the loss of experienced clinical preceptors in hospitals, which he said is compromising practical training and the overall competence of student nurses.
“Our clinical training is under threat. Without dedicated preceptors in the hospitals, students don’t receive the hands-on mentoring that defines quality nursing education,” Mr. Sebil noted.
Beyond staffing concerns, the principal painted a stark picture of the College’s infrastructural challenges. He cited unresolved land compensation issues, lack of staff accommodation, and an expanding student population straining already inadequate facilities. “We are experiencing rapid growth in student numbers, but our infrastructure hasn’t kept up. We’re short on lecture halls, laboratories, and hostels,” he stated.
He stressed that without staff bungalows on campus, tutors faced difficulty with punctuality and effective student supervision, particularly during clinical placements and emergencies. “This affects not just morale but also the quality of training we provide,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Sebil praised the resilience of the College community, noting recent investments in expanding classroom space. “We’ve added a new storey building and completed two classrooms, with two more near completion. These additions will help reduce overcrowding and improve academic delivery.”
Mr. Sebil concluded by reaffirming the College’s commitment to high academic standards, while calling on government, stakeholders, and the wider public to recognize the pivotal role nursing education plays in the nation’s health system.
