The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital has recently introduced the Caregiver Academy as part of their commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the state.
Established in collaboration with the state government, this academy is designed to offer comprehensive training to individuals interested in providing top-notch care to patients in various healthcare settings.
During the launch event, Professor Adetokunbo Fabamwo, the Chief Medical Director, highlighted the significance of the Caregiver Academy in bridging the existing skills gap among healthcare professionals in LASUTH and beyond. He expressed his optimism about the academy’s potential to uplift the standard of healthcare services in the region.
Professor Fabamwo further explained that the idea for this initiative stemmed from the growing demand for professional caregivers, both locally and internationally. Many working individuals with elderly parents struggle to balance their job responsibilities and caregiving duties, creating a need for skilled caregivers in the healthcare industry.
Fabamwo stated ,“Historically, the nursing profession has been known to nurse and care for patients, but we are in an era of diminishing workforce, and so the need for a new cadre to interface and care for patients is necessary, hence the creation of this academy.
“LASUTH has a successful track record of providing top-quality healthcare training services with the established five different training schools, including the Caregiver Academy,” he emphasized.
The head of the academy warned students not to confuse the caregiver training with nursing or medical school. He mentioned that the academy has a partnership with a UK institution where students can take extra modules online and get certified. Fabamwo confirmed that the students will have great teachers and a thorough learning experience.
The Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, praised the hospital’s management for their efforts in improving the healthcare sector through various initiatives at LASUTH, with Mr Olanrewaju Jenrola representing him at the event.
He restated, “Caregivers are the unsung heroes of our society. They provide comfort, support, and compassion to those in need, often sacrificing their own well-being in the process. The leadership of the hospital recognizes the invaluable role they play and seeks to empower them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to thrive in their vital roles.”
Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, the Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Health, recognized the achievement of LASUTH’s management in launching the initiative and commended the first group of students at the Caregiver Academy.
She highlighted the privilege that the pioneer students have in being part of the inaugural group to benefit from the program, especially during a period where there is a high demand for trained caregivers.
