The University of Medicine and Health Sciences Bill has been committed to the Joint Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Health Services for further legislative and public scrutiny.
The Joint Committee is expected to report its findings to the House in 3 weeks.
This was disclosed by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa after which the lawmakers debated its merits and demerits.
The Bill, which is proposing a Law for the Establishment and Constitution of the University of Medicine and Health Sciences for the State, seeks to strengthen the health sector by producing highly skilled professionals through specialized Tertiary Education, as well as expanding access to courses in Medicine, Nursing, and other health sciences.
Speaking on the proposed bill, Hon. Ajani Owolabi, Chairman, Committee on Tertiary Institutions, explained that the Institution will help increase admission opportunities for medical students.
Currently, most medical schools admit less than 100 students yearly, with
this bill, admissions could grow to over a thousand, creating wider access to training in Medical studies, he said.
Contributing, Hon. Musbau Lawal stressed that the establishment of the University will benefit Lagosians; curb the “relocation syndrome” among youths seeking medical knowledge abroad, and address the shortage of doctors and health professionals.
He cited existing Institutions such as LASUCOM as models.
Hon. Saheed Obafemi noted that the bill will not only tackle unemployment by providing jobs in the health and education sectors, but also boost the State’s economy.
