This it said was an interim measure in anticipation of the Government’s nationwide 24-hour economy agenda.
The management said the move, based on a single work schedule operating three shifts for three personnel, would significantly ensure prompt medical response, safeguard the health and safety of students and staff, and ensure the effective and sustainable use of the facility.
The appeal was made by the Assistant Headmaster (Administration), Rev. Fr. David Allan Ankrah, during the commissioning and handover of the infirmary by Mr Eric Edem Agbana, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North.
Rev. Fr. Ankrah described the infirmary project as a testament to perseverance, stakeholder collaboration, and the commitment of well-meaning individuals to the welfare of the school community.
He said its full operation would end the distressing practice of transporting sick students on motorbikes to health facilities in town and curb the misuse of exeats by students who previously left campus under the pretext of going to seek medical care.
“With reliable healthcare now available on campus, the infirmary will ensure prompt, safe and supervised medical attention, while enhancing student welfare, discipline and campus security,” he said.
He praised the MP’s personal commitment to the facility, citing a recent discussion in which Mr Agbana readily agreed to support the provision of a television set and a refrigerator for storing certain medicines.
“This demonstrates a leader who genuinely prioritises the welfare of his people. I am confident that, with his continued support, this infirmary will soon be upgraded to a clinic,” Rev. Fr. Ankrah added.
He also urged teachers and students to remain disciplined and dedicated, and to uphold high standards of conduct and learning to justify the confidence and investment the MP has placed in the school.
In response, Alhaji Sumaila Gariba, the Ketu North Municipal Health Director, acknowledged the request and explained that health facilities are mandated to operate 24-hour services, but staffing constraints have hindered full implementation.
“For the past three to four years, there has been no major recruitment in the health sector. Although many trained personnel are available, facilities remain constrained as some staff pursue further studies or leave for other fields,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the government’s planned recruitment drive would boost staffing levels this year, enabling facilities such as the DZOSEC infirmary to operate around the clock.
Alhaji Gariba also disclosed that the municipality currently had only four physician assistants, far below the minimum of 15 required to effectively upgrade facilities to clinic status.
“With the current nature of your facility, it qualifies for clinic status, but this will depend on the availability of adequate staff, including a resident physician assistant. Once the numbers improve, we will consider your facility for upgrade,” he assured.
He thanked all stakeholders for their collective efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery within the school and the municipality.
GNA
