Jumoke Olasunkanmi
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has affirmed its dedication to assisting Cross River in the establishment of a robust and sustainable workforce for the Colleges of Nursing Sciences in the state.
During a meeting with the health commissioner, Henry Ayuk, in Calabar, on Friday, WHO’s state coordinator, Yewande Olatunji, outlined the organisation’s plans for collaboration and support.
Olatunji acknowledged Cross River State’s commendable efforts in laying a strong foundation for the health sector workforce through the establishment of four colleges of nursing sciences and midwifery. She expressed WHO’s intention to conduct a needs analysis to identify areas requiring support.
This analysis will be used to prioritize the identified needs and address any human resource gaps in these institutions.
The health commissioner, Henry Ayuk, also expressed his gratitude for WHO’s consistent support in immunisation and surveillance activities, particularly amid recent outbreaks of cholera and Lassa fever in the state. Ayuk further assured the WHO team that Governor Bassey Otu’s administration remains committed to partnering with relevant organizations to enhance basic healthcare services in Cross River.
Appreciating WHO’s commitment, Ayuk stated, “I welcome WHO’s innovative support promised to develop the workforce in the Colleges of Nursing Sciences in Cross River.
“This development sets the stage for further collaboration in other areas of workforce development, particularly in clinical training for the State College of Medicine. This aligns with the governor’s vision to establish comprehensive healthcare services in the state.”
