Author: Peter Martey Agbeko
The serene Cedi Auditorium at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Ho, came alive on Friday, November 7, 2025, as traditional medicine practitioners from across Ghana gathered for the Closing and Certificate Award Ceremony of the Professional Practice Course (PPC) — a milestone event signalling Ghana’s steady march toward global standards in traditional and alternative medicine.
The colourful ceremony, which ran from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., was graced by a distinguished assembly of dignitaries, including the Director of the Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM), the WHO Ghana Representative, the Managing Director of MES Equipment Ltd., and officials from the Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC). A representative of the Minister of Health delivered the keynote address.
Speaking on behalf of the Acting Registrar of the TMPC, Dr. (MH) Yakubu Yusuf, the Administrative Secretary, Dr. Evelyn Abayaah-Issah, commended the graduates for their dedication and professionalism, describing the occasion as “a significant milestone not only in the lives of our graduands but also in the advancement of Ghana’s traditional and alternative medicine sector.”
A Structured and Inspiring Ceremony
After an opening prayer and welcome address, participants were given an insightful overview of the Professional Practice Course by the Director of ITAM. Two participants shared moving testimonials about how the programme had transformed their understanding and approach to traditional healing, followed by brief goodwill messages from various dignitaries.
The WHO Ghana Representative and the Registrar of the TMPC reaffirmed their support for strengthening traditional medicine through training and regulation.
The Managing Director of MES Equipment Ltd. also pledged continued collaboration to promote research, product quality, and practitioner competence.
A lively musical interlude lifted spirits before the keynote address, delivered by the Director of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Directorate (TAMD) on behalf of the Minister of Health. The speaker highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that traditional and alternative medicine practitioners meet international competency benchmarks while preserving Ghana’s rich indigenous knowledge systems.
Certificates and Citations of Excellence
One of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates and special citations to the successful participants. Led by the Director of ITAM and officials from the Registrar’s Office, the award segment recognised both academic achievement and professional commitment. Smiles, cheers, and applause filled the hall as practitioners walked across the stage to receive their certificates — symbolic of their readiness to serve Ghana’s healthcare system with enhanced skill and integrity.
In her remarks, Dr. Abayaah-Issah reiterated that approximately 70% of Ghanaians depend on traditional and alternative medicine as part of their primary healthcare. She noted that the PPC graduates were now better equipped to meet the evolving standards of practice aligned with national regulations and the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034.
“The Council expects that you will maintain your registration and licensing in good standing. This is not merely a regulatory requirement—it is a demonstration of your commitment to professional excellence and public safety,” she said.
Towards Global Standards in Traditional Healing
The Acting Registrar, through Dr. Abayaah-Issah, reaffirmed TMPC’s vision of transforming Ghana’s traditional, herbal, and alternative medicine sector into a globally competitive industry delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based products while creating sustainable jobs across the value chain.
She commended UHAS for its foresight in introducing the Professional Practice Course, describing the university as a “strategic partner” in the Council’s plan to make Competency-Based Training (CBT) the standard for all traditional medicine practitioners across the country.
With the ceremony drawing to a close, the Head of Administration at ITAM gave a heartfelt vote of thanks, followed by a closing prayer and the stirring rendition of the UHAS Anthem. The event ended with a group photograph — capturing a defining moment in Ghana’s journey to professionalise and elevate traditional medicine practice to global standards.
As the newly certified practitioners departed, one message resonated deeply: traditional medicine in Ghana is no longer an informal calling — it is a professional vocation, rooted in heritage, strengthened by science, and guided by excellence.
