Dr. Atta Yeboah-Sarpong, Acting Director of Academic Affairs at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), gave the advice during the matriculation ceremony for 734 students at the Ghana Armed Forces College of Nursing and Midwifery (GAFCONM) held at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.

The ceremony marked the admission of students who will pursue Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Midwifery programmes at the college, an affiliate of UCC.
It was on the theme "Charting New Horizons: Building Tomorrow's Leaders for Effective Healthcare Delivery."

The Ghana Armed Forces College of Nursing and Midwifery, affiliated with UCC, is the first health training institution in Ghana to transition its diploma programmes to bachelor's level.

Newly admitted students will pursue Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing and Midwifery.

Dr. Yeboah-Sarpong, speaking on behalf of the UCC Vice-Chancellor, emphasized that healthcare is constantly changing, with new diseases, evolving treatment methods, and advancements in technology.

"Therefore, remain curious, proactive, and adaptable in your learning process," he said.

Dr. Yeboah-Sarpong encouraged the students to embody the values of professionalism, integrity, and teamwork. "Healthcare is a collaborative field, and your ability to work effectively with colleagues, patients, and other professionals will define your success.

"Make the most of the state-of-the-art training opportunities at the 37 Military Hospital, engage in meaningful research, and develop critical thinking skills that will distinguish you as competent and compassionate healthcare professionals," he advised.

Dr. Yeboah-Sarpong assured students of UCC's commitment to supporting their academic journey through mentorship, Toounty faculty development, and global partnerships.

"We believe in your potential to not only excel but to lead the transformation of healthcare in Ghana and beyond."
He challenged the students to explore specialised fields such as perioperative nursing, neonatal intensive care, oncology nursing, critical care, and geriatric nursing, stating,

"These fields are gaining increasing importance globally, and graduates with expertise in these areas will have a competitive advantage in the job market," he noted.

Dr. Yeboah-Sarpong urged the college to secure scholarships and exchange programmes for faculty and exceptional students to enable international training in advanced nursing specialties.

"This will further enhance the institution's reputation as a center of excellence in nursing and midwifery education," he stated.

Air Commodore Nana Adu-Gyamfi, Military Secretary of the Ghana Armed Forces and guest of honour, encouraged the students to study diligently.

"The task ahead may seem challenging, but with consistency and dedication, I believe you can weather the storm eventually," he said.

Commodore Adu-Gyamfi reminded students of the high academic standards expected due to the college's upgrade to a degree-awarding institution.
He also appealed to the principal, faculty, and staff to support the students in their pursuit of success.

Major Bright Attah Addae, Acting Principal of GAFCONM, revealed that 734 students were admitted out of 4,706 applicants for the 2024/2025 academic year.
He commended the matriculants for their commitment, empathy, and academic promise.

"Together we will ensure you gain the scientific grounding, ethical ground rules, and irreplaceable hands-on experience from the finest practitioners needed to excel in your selected field of healing art as a nurse or midwife," he said.

Major Addae urged the students to embrace opportunities for learning and mentorship while maintaining self-care amid the challenges of their studies.

"Stay devoted in your development, maintain mindful self-care as stress mounts, and above all, stay true to the noble profession and human spirit that called you here," he admonished.