Stranded Ghanaian medical graduates in Cuba appeal to Mahama for immediate return

Ghanaian medical graduates, currently residing in Cuba, are urgently appealing to President John Dramani Mahama for assistance in returning to their home country. The group, which completed their studies on July 22, has been stranded in Cuba for nearly two months due to repeated delays in their departure dates. Raphael Oteng Boakye, the president of the graduating doctors, expressed their immediate demand for President Mahama to facilitate their return home as soon as possible.

The group was initially scheduled to leave Cuba on August 28, but subsequent departure dates of September 3, 4, 7, 9, and September 15 or 17 were also postponed.

The prolonged stay could negatively impact the graduates' plans to integrate into Ghana's health system, as they must complete a six-month clinical attachment before sitting the medical licensing examination in Ghana. The doctors are currently facing financial difficulties, with six months of stipends allegedly outstanding, and a $360 annual book allowance that has not been paid for five years.

Additionally, the graduates are seeking government support to cover the cost of their first attempt at the medical licensing examination. The uncertainty surrounding their return has also led to other challenges, including the expiration of student identification cards and reported difficulties with electricity and water at their residences.