The Program
From a problem for both countries to a gain for all involved
A shortage of skilled nursing staff is an issue that is just as common in Ghana as it is in Germany.
The solution: knowledge transfer for better training. The purpose of the new Academy at the Medical Centre in Toase is to support the development of medical care in Ghana over the longer term.
It is planned that students will apply to the MHH in Hanover, where they can complete the practical component of their training program.
The Medical Center in Toase
An efficiently run clinic for the people of the Ashanti region
The Frimpong-Boateng Medical Center is an example of how development cooperation can be successful.
Thanks to the commitment and support of many sponsors, the Center has grown steadily to become a stable pillar of local health care since it was opened in 2001.
The hospital is now equipped with more than 120 beds, a laboratory and blood bank, operating theatres, a maternity ward and as many as three intensive care beds. In most sections, the equipment and expertise correspond to European standards.
The Academy
Up to 200 highly trained nurses per year - a quantum leap for care in the country
The school of nursing in Toase will train up to 200 students per year starting from 2022. This is made possible by a new building adjacent to the Frimpong-Boateng Medical Center, which was built using donations totalling $800,000.
This is where students not only acquire their professional skills, but also learn how to fulfil their new role as multipliers. They regularly pass on their knowledge in the surrounding villages by providing education on preventive health and advice on topics such as nutrition, diabetes or malaria.
The curriculum was developed together with the School of Nursing at the MHH in Hanover and also includes German language instruction. This enables the trainees to specialise in a particular field in Hanover after completing their basic training in Ghana. Trainees can apply to do this at the MHH and then continue their practical training.
The Medical Education Program is a success for all
It offers students an international education at the cutting edge of knowledge. The Ashanti region in Ghana benefits from a sustainable upgrade of medical care.
As President of MHH, I warmly welcome the association's activities. MHH looks forward to welcoming nursing school graduates from Ghana if they wish to continue their training with us so as to attain further specialisation.
Prof. Dr. Michael P. Manns
President, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover [Hannover Medical School]
Nursing plays a key role in healthcare systems all over the world. The latest developments in medicine and technology and increasing needs are changing the demands placed on health care, and therefore also on the role of nursing. Investing in nursing means ensuring that training is provided at a high level of expertise and professionalism. As a medical school, this is what we do every day - and it is what we know how to well. MHH is using its expertise to support this exchange programme to build a school of nursing in Toase, Ghana.
Vera Lux
Director of Nursing and Head of Nursing Management at MHH