MDCN tasks 132 new doctors on professionalism, patient care

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has instructed 132 newly appointed medical doctors from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) to exemplify professionalism, integrity, and respect towards patients and peers throughout their medical careers. This directive was delivered at the induction ceremony by Prof. Fatima Kyari, the council's registrar, who framed the event as a crucial milestone marking the commencement of the graduates' professional journey.

Prof. Kyari emphasized that medicine is more than just academic knowledge; it demands a blend of competence, technical skills, compassion, and respect for humanity. She cautioned the doctors to remember that each individual they encounter has a unique backstory and relies on them for care and treatment. Kyari also encouraged the new doctors to show respect for senior colleagues and teachers while urging senior practitioners to offer proper guidance and mentorship to their younger counterparts.

The Vice-Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Ahmed Adamu, underscored that the doctors' induction was not merely an academic accomplishment but a profound responsibility to humanity. He stressed that each diagnosis involves a human being and every patient represents a family placing trust in the doctor. Prof. Adamu reported that the university is enhancing clinical training facilities, laboratories, lecture halls, and professorial offices to bolster teaching, research, and patient care.

He expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for choosing ABU as a beneficiary of the High Impact Intervention in Medical Sciences.

Prof. Ahmed Umdigas Hamidu, the Chief Medical Director of ABU Teaching Hospital, Shika, urged the doctors to prioritize patients and uphold competence, teamwork, and ethical conduct. He highlighted that they are graduating during a time when Nigeria urgently needs their services. Hamidu emphasized that the hospitals and communities are counting on them at this critical juncture.

Earlier, the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, Prof. Ismail Lawal Dahiru, announced an increase in ABU's medical admission quota from 180 to 350 students. Dahiru's decision reflected confidence in the university's capacity to produce more medical professionals to address the country's and global manpower shortages in healthcare.