The Paramount Chief of Kpando and President of the Akpini Traditional Council, Okpekpewuokpe Togbui Dagadu IX, has called on students of the Margaret Marquart Catholic Nursing Training College to maintain discipline and uphold the reputation of the institution.
Speaking at the college’s 5th Anniversary celebration and fundraising event, the chief advised students to respect their lecturers, remain focused on their studies, and avoid behaviours that could bring dishonour to the school.
The event was held under the theme: “Caring for Generations, Creating a Legacy of Hope: Our Role as a Health Training Institution.”
Addressing the gathering, Togbui Dagadu IX stressed that students’ conduct reflects not only on themselves but also on the school and the nursing profession. He urged them to carry themselves with dignity both on campus and in their communities.
“To the lecturers and administrators, I also say: a teacher plants seeds that grow into forests. The values you instill in these students will shape the future of healthcare in our nation. When discipline becomes the culture of this institution, its reputation will spread far and wide, and more students will come from many parts of Ghana to study here,” he said.
The chief highlighted the importance of strong infrastructure, noting: “A house that is strong must stand on a strong foundation.”
He called for support from the government, Ministry of Health, development partners, alumni, corporate institutions, and the community to provide modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, hostels, and practical training facilities that will equip students with the skills needed to serve effectively in hospitals and communities.
Noting the growing healthcare needs in the country, Togbui Dagadu IX encouraged the college to explore opportunities to expand programmes in nursing, midwifery, community health, and other specialized areas.
“A single tree cannot make a forest. The more programmes the institution offers, the more professionals it can train to strengthen the health system of our nation,” he said.
The chief also emphasized the need to elevate the college to a degree-awarding institution, in line with the Ministry of Health’s directive.
“When the ladder is placed firmly, one must climb higher. This college has already built a strong foundation; now is the time to climb to the next level of excellence,” he said, urging all stakeholders to work together to achieve this goal.
He underscored the role of traditional leaders in promoting education and health as pillars of development.
“We will continue to support efforts that promote discipline, peace, and development so that this institution will grow into one of the leading health training institutions in our country,” Togbui Dagadu IX concluded.
The anniversary celebration also served as a platform to mobilize resources for the expansion of the college’s infrastructure to enhance teaching and learning.
