Benin: The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, inaugurated the newly upgraded Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology (EDOCOHEST) on Wednesday. This event marked a significant milestone in his ongoing healthcare reforms initiated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Governor Obaseki highlighted the original vision of the College of Health Technology, which was established 60 years ago, and stressed its importance in addressing the healthcare system’s weaknesses exposed by the pandemic. Reflecting on the past, he emphasized the importance of valuing educational institutions, stating, “May the labour of our heroes never go in vain.”
The governor expressed his concerns during the pandemic, noting that the central hospital was the only viable healthcare option at that time. This realization led to his commitment in 2020 to restore health institutions across Edo State. He underscored the necessity of building a robust healthcare system not just through infrastructur
e but by training skilled individuals.
Obaseki recalled that when he assumed office in 2016, both the School of Nursing and the College of Health Technology were closed and unaccredited. Post-COVID-19, he prioritized revamping these institutions to generate the manpower needed for the state’s healthcare system. Furthermore, he revealed the development of over 10 primary health centers to serve local communities in areas such as Oredo, Amagba, and Evhotobu, aligning with Nigeria’s policy of one health center per political ward.
The governor emphasized the critical need for healthcare training institutions to educate nurses, pharmacists, and support staff, advocating for solutions that emerge from all levels of the society. He commended the institution’s standards, which he claimed surpassed many universities in the country, providing world-class facilities, free internet, and reliable electricity.
Governor Obaseki also expressed pride in the merit-based admission process, which offers young people opportuni
ties that were unavailable in 2016. He pointed out that the lack of such opportunities previously led to issues like human trafficking due to despair and inadequate leadership focused on development.
In addition, the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, praised Obaseki’s efforts, describing the college as a testament to what can be achieved through resilience, vision, and dedication. Lawal mentioned similar initiatives in Zamfara and expressed hope that the institution would create jobs, connect people, and drive economic growth both within and beyond Edo State.