Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, demonstrated its leadership in eye care training as it hosted the 7th Oath-Taking and Induction Ceremony for newly qualified Dispensing Opticians today

The Provost of the College, Elder Ayanshola Benjamin, reaffirmed CHT Offa's unwavering pursuit of academic excellence, which has translated into outstanding milestones. He described the Dispensing Opticianry department as one of the leading centres for Opticianry training in Nigeria.

Highlighting the results of this commitment, Elder Benjamin announced the successful re-accreditation of the National Diploma programme and the historic accreditation of the Higher National Diploma in Dispensing Opticianry. He noted that this achievement is unprecedented, as CHT Offa has produced the first set of HND graduates in Opticianry in Nigeria and indeed in West Africa.

The Provost further emphasized the role of the college's modern facilities in achieving these outcomes. According to him, its well equipped clinic and laboratory complete with advanced instruments and diagnostic tools provide students with the hands-on experience necessary to address challenges related to visual impairment and blindness within their communities.

Elder Ayanshola Benjamin also expressed sincere appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, for his support toward strengthening healthcare education. He appealed for further collaboration, particularly with regard to the employment of qualified Opticians from the college into the state's Civil Service, as part of efforts to enhance healthcare delivery.

Head of Department for Dispensing Opticianry, Dr. Ibrahim Liman, thanked the Regulatory Board for recognizing the department as the best training institution for Opticians in Nigeria and Chief Optician Akanbi Abdulfatai was presented with an award as the best educator in the country, a testament to the department's dedication to exceptional teaching and mentorship.

The guest speaker, Dr. Oluwole Gabriel Afolayan, delivered an inspiring message to the inductees. He urged them to prioritize service over financial gain, reminding them that professional honor and rewards naturally follow individuals who are committed to excellence. He encouraged the graduates to serve with strength, compassion, and integrity, uphold high moral standards, and embrace continuous learning throughout their careers.

The ceremony concluded with the new opticians taking their professional oath, pledging to uphold ethical standards and the noble responsibilities of their profession.