The Institute for Public Health Professional Development (IPHP) has successfully concluded a one-day familiarization visit to the University of Makeni (UNIMAK). The visit, held at the auditorium of UNIMAK’s Fatima Campus, aimed to introduce the institute’s work to the university administration and students while fostering collaboration in public health education and professional development.
Welcoming the delegation from IPHP, the Head of the Public Health Department, Sister Magdalena Umoh, expressed appreciation for the initiative, emphasizing that UNIMAK remains committed to working with organizations that promote education and professional training.
“The University of Makeni is always open to partnerships that enhance learning and professional growth. The Institute of Public Health Professionals is always welcome here,” she stated.
She further urged students to engage actively in the discussions, as such interactions provide valuable insights into career opportunities in public health.
Speaking during the session, the National Coordinator of the Institute of Health Professionals and Development (IHPD), Ade Renner, provided an overview of the institute’s mission. He explained that IPHP was founded by public health practitioners and scholars in Sierra Leone and the diaspora, with the goal of strengthening the country’s health system through workforce development.
“Our aim is to support the government and development partners in improving the national health system by providing high-quality, relevant professional training programs that are directly linked to service delivery,” Renner said.
He further emphasized the institute’s commitment to promoting continuous education among healthcare providers and public health practitioners, ensuring they remain updated with modern healthcare practices.
Renner also revealed that IPHP has strategic affiliations with other organizations, making it a credible and effective institution. Additionally, he disclosed that efforts are currently underway to formally register the institute in Sierra Leone
One of the key advantages of joining IPHP, according to Renner, is that students automatically qualify as members of the African Institute of Public Health Professionals—the largest network of public health practitioners in the region. This membership provides access to professional training, networking opportunities, and career advancement prospects.
He encouraged students to consider joining the institute, outlining the numerous benefits and opportunities available.
Speaking on behalf of the university, UNIMAK Registrar Foday Augustine Bangura commended the institute for its efforts in strengthening the healthcare system. He emphasized that organizations like IPHP create opportunities not only for public health professionals but also for individuals who wish to contribute to the health sector in various capacities.
“It is very important for such organizations to exist because they provide opportunities for people who are not necessarily public health officials to be part of and support the health system,” Bangura said.
The event concluded with an interactive session where students and posse engaged the IPHP team in a question-and-answer session. The discussions centered around the institute’s role in public health, its impact on the national healthcare system, and how students could benefit from its programs.
The visit marks the beginning of what is expected to be a strong partnership between the Institute of Public Health Professionals and the University of Makeni in advancing healthcare education and workforce development in Sierra Leone.
