The Department of Optometry and Visual Science at the College of Science (CoS) of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, has held a White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2025 to usher the students who have completed their first phase of pre-clinical training into the clinical phase of the studies.
In his welcome address, the Head of the Department, Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, stated that the ceremony marks the beginning of a transformative journey for students as they enter their clinical years and begin their path toward becoming healthcare professionals.
According to Dr. Owusu Akuffo, the theme for this year’s White Coat ceremony: “Transforming Sight, Transforming Lives” could not be more appropriate as their primary responsibility as optometrists is to improve the visual health of patients, which has impact on the transformation of lives. He continued that they help people see the world in a new light, enabling them to appreciate the beauty around them. But the transformation they seek goes beyond individual patients. He stated that optometrists have a role to play in transforming society. This is because poor vision affects not only individuals but also their families, communities, and the economy. By providing comprehensive eye care services and advocating for policies that support visual health, they can make a significant difference in the lives of people across Ghana and the world.
The Head of the Department said, to achieve transformation in visual health, optometrists must stay committed to their profession’s core values, including excellence, empathy, and lifelong learning. He further stated that they must always strive to provide the best possible care to patients, listen to their concerns and understand their unique needs. In addition, optometrists must continue to expand their knowledge and skills, staying up to date with the modern advancements in optometry to deliver the highest quality care.
In a speech read on his behalf, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ellis Owusu-Dabo, said the theme of the event is a powerful reminder of the crucial role the students will play in the lives of their future patients. He added that the white coat represents more than just a uniform but symbolizes the trust and confidence that society has in them as healthcare professionals. It also represents commitment and responsibility to patients, colleagues, and profession, the Pro Vice-Chancellor added.
Professor Owusu-Dabo advised the students to always remember the immense privileges and responsibilities associated with their profession. “You are not just providing care for individuals but contributing to the betterment of society. You will be the advocate for your patients, the innovators of new technologies and leaders in health care reform,” he said.
Ending his address, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, was confident that the training the students are receiving from KNUST would prepare them to face the challenges and create opportunities to rapidly change the healthcare landscape.
The Provost of the CoS, Professor Leonard K. Amekudzi congratulated the students for making it into their clinical year. He urged them to take their training seriously in order to graduate to contribute to the healthcare sector of the country.
The students were robbed into their white coats by faculty and dignitaries at the event.