The Kwara State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Al-Hikmah University for the establishment of Al-Hikmah teaching Hospital at the Sobi Specialist Hospital, Ilorin.
The Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, Al-Hikmah University, Dr. Sikiru Lanre Nurudeen, made this disclosure at a press briefing in Ilorin on Friday.
According to him, the signing of the MoU which took place in the Ministry of Health was part of the University’s move to secure the National University Commission (NUC) approval to commence medicine programme in this year’s academic session.
While appreciating the kind gesture of Gov AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State for the approval, the DVC assured the state government of the University’s commitment to meet the terms of the agreement.
Dr. Nurudeen, expressed the university’s enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying “the University is delighted to partner with the State government to boost healthcare delivery in the state.”
“We are fully aware of the remarkable progress the government is making in the health sector, and we believe this MoU will further improve health outcomes across the State as the Al-Hikmah University is committed to excellence and delivering on its promises.”
According to him, the project will also address medical tourism, saying Al-Hikmah University has all it takes to begin medicine programme through its College of Health Sciences.
“Accreditation by NUC will cover four major areas including curriculum, staffing, functional library, and standard infrastructure among others.
“We have also embarked on the building of a permanent structure for the Teaching Hospital within the campus.”
Speaking eatlier at the signing ceremony, the State ‘s for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, described the occasion as a pivotal moment for the State, saying “today is an auspicious day for us, a meeting of the town and gown.
“This MoU is a reflection of our dedication to the holistic development of Kwara State.
“The MoU is aimed at fostering public private partnership to advance health care and tertiary education in the State.”
Dr. El-Imam highlighted the uniqueness of the partnership, noting that it would bridge the gap between the public and private sectors.
“This agreement is a clear indication that the government prioritizes the overall development of the State, ensuring that both healthcare and education systems are strengthened for the benefit of all,” she reiterated.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Mary Arinde, emphasized the importance of education in driving technological advancement and skill acquisition.
“Education is the foundation of literacy and the key to technological growth. This collaboration is a giant stride towards producing highly skilled doctors and healthcare professionals who will bolster our health system.
“I am confident that with this partnership, Kwara State will soon have sufficient health personnel to meet the growing demand,” she said.
The ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Alhaja Afusat Adenike Ibrahim, the Executive Secretary, Kwara Hospital Management Board, Dr Malik Abdulraheem, Representative of the office of Head of Service, Ministry of Justice, Registrar, Al-Hikmah University Dr Oladimeji, former DVC, Prof G.O Akasoro and other members of the Academia from the University.
