University students and professionals in pharmacy, optometry, and physiotherapy have warmly welcomed the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) recent decision to extend the duration of these courses to six years. This change replaces the previous five-year study period, bringing the programs in line with international standards.
The NUC’s announcement, made on Wednesday by acting Director of Public Affairs, Franca Chukwuonwo, clarified that graduates in these fields will now earn advanced degrees: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT), and Doctor of Optometry (O.D.), replacing the former Bachelor’s degrees.
According to the NUC, the expansion of the programs includes additional courses to meet global academic and professional standards.
Reactions from Professionals
Prof. Rufai Yusuf-Ahmad, the Registrar/CEO of the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria, expressed support for the development, noting that physiotherapy had already transitioned to a six-year program in some universities over four years ago. He explained that this shift would improve the quality of education and training, allowing physiotherapists to specialize in different areas and better prepare for primary healthcare roles.
Similarly, Salamatu Orakwelu, Chair of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FCT chapter), emphasized that while the six-year program isn’t new, it aligns with global best practices. Orakwelu highlighted that the move would improve patient safety and care, benefiting both practitioners and patients alike.
Dr. Obinna Awiaka, former President of the Nigerian Optometric Association, pointed out that the optometry program has been a six-year course since 1989, while Dr. Bola Sogunro, an experienced optometrist, echoed this sentiment, calling for more recognition and appropriate compensation for optometrists.
Students React to the Change
Students are also positive about the development. Illo Prudentus, a 500-level Pharmacy student at the University of Lagos, noted that the new curriculum will benefit future cohorts, with the transition to a PharmD expected to enhance the program’s international relevance.
Timi Adeloun, a 300-level Physiotherapy student at the University of Ibadan, also welcomed the move, anticipating that the extended course duration would raise the profile and effectiveness of physiotherapists in healthcare.
Concerns and Criticisms
Despite widespread approval, some, like Prof. Kayode Adebayo, Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, have raised concerns. Adebayo questioned the necessity of extending the duration of studies and the added value it would bring, particularly in a global context where some countries are reducing academic durations in certain medical fields.
A Step Towards Global Competitiveness
Many believe that the extended six-year programs will improve Nigeria’s position on the global stage. Dr. Lolu Ojo, CEO of Merit Healthcare Ltd., emphasized that the switch from BPharm to PharmD will enhance the quality of education, professionalism, and clinical skills, providing pharmacists with better job prospects and earning potential. Olaide Soetan, MD of NHC Pharmaceuticals Limited, echoed these views, underscoring the importance of aligning pharmacy education with international standards and improving patient care outcomes in Nigeria.
Overall, the NUC’s decision to extend these programs to six years is viewed as a positive step towards improving the quality of healthcare education and preparing graduates to meet international standards. While some concerns remain, the consensus among students and professionals is that this change will ultimately benefit both practitioners and the healthcare system as a whole.
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