PILAR COLLEGE OF HEALTH TECHNOLOGY CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE, GRADUATES 300+ HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, BRIDGING NIGERIA'S HEALTHWORKER GAP

PILAR COLLEGE OF HEALTH TECHNOLOGY CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE, GRADUATES 300+ HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, BRIDGING NIGERIA'S HEALTHWORKER GAP

By Olatunji Peter

Pilar College of Health Technology, Alakuko, recently celebrated its 4th Convocation Ceremony, honoring hundreds of graduates in various healthcare programs, including Pharmacy Technician, Public Health Technology, and Community Health Technology. The event featured a keynote lecture by Pharmacist Oluyemisi Moradeke Oyewo, who emphasized the crucial role government policies play in shaping Nigeria's healthcare system.

Pharmacist Oyewo cited examples such as the National Health Policy, the National Health Act (2014), and the establishment of regulatory bodies like NPHCDA and NAFDAC, highlighting their impact on standardizing healthcare services.

The convocation ceremony also featured the installation of Mr. Victor F. Adewola as the new Provost of Pillar College, who expressed gratitude and pledged to uphold academic excellence. "I see students as gifts from God, and my goal is to nurture them to achieve their full potential," he said.

Dr. Emmanuel Oluwayemi, Founder and Chairman of Pilar College of Health Technology, highlighted the institution's commitment to producing competent and godly healthcare professionals, citing the college's accreditation and recognition by regulatory bodies such as the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (CHPRBN), the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), and the Council of Health Assistants and Technicians of Nigeria (CHATN).

"We are bridging the gap in Nigeria's health sector by providing quality education and training," he said.

"Our graduates consistently perform well in board and international exams, and are highly sought after by hospitals."

The event also honored two outstanding individuals, Mrs. Sanusi Alaka, Director of the National Community Health Practice Board, and Mrs. Funmilayo Kolawole, CEO of Folyma Pharmacy and Superstores, Lagos, for their contributions to health education and pharmaceutical services.

Mrs. Sanusi-Alaka Simbiat, Director of Community Health Services, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, received the Award of Excellence for her dedication to improving community health.

In her goodwill message, Mrs. Sanusi-Alaka praised the college's commitment to academic excellence and encouraged graduates to serve with kindness, commitment, and love. She emphasized the importance of primary health care in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Pilar College offers government-approved and accredited programs, state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories and an e-library, and prioritizes student well-being and holistic development, offering hostel accommodation and extracurricular activities. With a three-year program, graduates of Pilar College can practice promptly in government, private institutions, or independently, presenting a faster path to employment than traditional university degrees.

The college has been producing competent healthcare professionals since its inception, with its graduates in high demand both locally and internationally. Plans are underway to introduce more courses, including HND and ND programs, by the end of the year. The Provost, Mr. Victor F. Adewola, invited graduates to embody the values of the institution, promising to uphold professionalism and ethics in their chosen careers.

The event was attended by dignitaries, including His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Oluwalambe Taiwo (JP), Paramount Ruler of Ifako/Ojokoro, High Chief Animashaun Idowu Taofeek Adeshina, Baale of Alakuko, Pharm (Mrs) Oluwayemisi Moradeke, Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Eleyele, Ibadan, Dr (Mrs) Oluyemisi Omoyele, representing the Lagos State Ministry of Education and DPO of Alakuko Police Division, CSP Mavin Osaro ably represented by his DCO.

College officials present included Mr. Reuben A. Olowojoba, Deputy Provost; Mr. Samson A. Adewole, Registrar; Mrs. Blessing Iselobhor, Bursar; and Mrs. Merey Ekundayo, Director of Students’ Affairs.

The 4th Convocation Ceremony of Pilar College of Health Technology marked a significant milestone in the institution's history, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in healthcare education and training.