UG College of Science marks Scientific Renaissance
The University of Ghana’s College of Health Sciences has carried out a medical and dental screening exercise at the La-Nkwantanan D/A Cluster of Schools at Madina in the Greater Accra Region.
The exercise was held as part of activities to mark this year’s Day of Scientific Renaissance for Africa.
The initiative, which was targeted at schoolchildren and market women, addressed common health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, and dental issues.
The outreach formed part of the university’s broader commitment to deploying science and health care to make a positive impact in communities across the country.
Health awareness
Professor Yaw Afrane of the university’s College of Health Sciences told the Daily Graphic that the screening was not only for diagnosis but also for public education.
“Many people, especially in underserved communities, are unaware that they have conditions such as high blood pressure or early-stage kidney problems. Our goal is to help them discover these issues early before complications arise,” he said.
He stressed that the Day of Scientific Renaissance for Africa, established by the African Union in 1987, provided a unique opportunity each year to demonstrate how science and health research could directly benefit African communities.
Prof. Afrane said the university’s annual observance included community-based activities designed to raise awareness and improve access to basic health services.
Follow-ups
The academic added that individuals identified with medical or dental issues would be referred for further care.
“Follow-ups would be organised in the coming months to ensure that those affected receive the necessary support,” he added.
He also stressed that the event was not a one-off exercise, but part of a broader outreach strategy by the College of Health Sciences.
A consultant and obstetrician gynaecologist at the University of Ghana Medical School, Dr Theodore Boafo, said that although they were unable to include services such as breast screening on this occasion, the team prioritised the most urgent needs.
“We focused on what was feasible with the resources available. We are expecting about 200 people to be screened,” he said.
He added that the College of Health Sciences had planned to organise similar health interventions in other communities, reinforcing its commitment to improving public health through scientific engagement.
Oral health
A lecturer at the University of Ghana Dental School, Dr Josephine Sackeyfio, said it was important for children to understand the benefits of good oral hygiene.
“We are here to talk to the children about how to care for their teeth, so they do not face problems in the future,” she said.
Dr Sackeyfio said regular dental visits were essential and recommended a visit to the dentist every six months.
