The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort from its School of Anaesthetic Technology.
Dr. Titilayo Awodesu, head of the School of Anaesthetic Technology, was lauded for her tireless efforts in ensuring the program’s success. Her dedication was instrumental in training the graduates who are now prepared to bridge critical gaps in anaesthetic care.
This event marked a significant milestone in addressing the urgent need for skilled anaesthetic technicians in Nigeria. Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, welcomed the new graduates into the “One Health Family in Lagos State.”
He underscored the vital role anaesthetic technicians play in connecting patients with surgical teams and encouraged the graduates to enhance their professional expertise continually.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, similarly urged them to prioritise contributing to Nigeria’s healthcare system over seeking opportunities abroad. Dr. John Oyebuchi, Coordinator of the National Board of Technical Education, commended LASUTH’s management for its visionary leadership in establishing the school.
The graduates were advised to uphold high standards in both technical proficiency and professional conduct as they begin their careers. Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, congratulated the graduates for their hard work and commitment throughout the program. He encouraged them to maintain excellence in their practice and to play an active role in advancing Lagos State’s healthcare system.
Professor Adetokunbo Fabamwo, Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, also praised the graduates for their perseverance and exceptional performance during the rigorous training. He expressed pride in their achievements and urged them to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare sector.
He highlighted the efforts of LASUTH’s management committee in establishing the school and noted ongoing initiatives to include Anaesthetic Technology as an official cadre in Lagos State’s Scheme of Service.
What This Graduation Entails
Reflecting on the origins of the program, Professor Fabamwo explained that the idea for the school was inspired by a similar initiative at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). Recognising LASUTH’s capacity to independently develop a program of this calibre, the hospital’s leadership took decisive steps to bring the vision to life.
The graduation of this inaugural cohort represents a significant achievement for LASUTH and the healthcare system in Lagos State. It demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery through innovation and training.
By equipping these professionals with the necessary skills, LASUTH aims to strengthen anaesthetic services and contribute to improved surgical outcomes across the state.
The event celebrated the graduates’ accomplishments and underscored the importance of their role in healthcare. LASUTH’s initiative reflects a proactive approach to tackling workforce shortages in the medical field, setting a precedent for other institutions.
As these newly trained anaesthetic technologists embark on their careers, they are responsible for upholding excellence and making a lasting impact in the healthcare sector.