Prolonged delays in posting graduate nurses and midwives are eroding the confidence of trainees. The Ghana Nurse-Midwife Trainees’ Association (GNMTA) states this is threatening the future health professional pipeline. Many graduates remain unemployed for months. This creates uncertainty for current students. It also raises concerns about the nursing profession's attractiveness.
Abankwa Takyiakwa, President of the GNMTA’s Ashanti-Bono-Ahafo Zone, highlighted the problem. He spoke at the ASHBA Inter-College Quiz Competition on May 18, 2026. He said the situation discourages trainees. It weakens morale in nursing and midwifery schools. Timely postings are crucial. They sustain interest in these programs. They also help address staff shortages in hospitals and clinics.
“The delay in posting is reducing students’ confidence in the health sector,” Mr. Takyiakwa stated. “When graduates are left without postings for extended periods, it sends the wrong signal to those in training. We call on the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance to expedite the posting process and provide clarity on timelines for graduates awaiting deployment.”
Delays in paying trainee allowances are also a major concern. Mr. Takyiakwa reported that only a small number of students received their stipends. This places significant financial pressure on trainees. Many rely on family support for their education. Trainees who finished in 2025 are owed two months of allowance.
Resolving these issues is vital. It reassures trainees about employment opportunities. It also confirms financial support after graduation. This situation is part of a larger challenge. Ghana faces a consistent need for more healthcare workers. Past events show similar concerns about job placement. For example, the Ministry of Health began validating health professionals for recruitment in 2026. This problem directly impacts public finance. Unemployed health professionals represent underutilized state investment in training. Delayed payments also affect individual household economies.
The GNMTA is urging the government to conduct rechecks. These checks should happen at the Controller and Accountant General's Department. The aim is to ensure all eligible trainees receive their allowances. This is not just about individual benefit. It is about the sustainability of the healthcare sector. A motivated health workforce is essential for public well-being.
In other news from the event, Holy Family Nursing and Midwifery Training College won the 2026 ASHBA Inter-College Quiz Competition. They beat other strong contenders. The college's head, Shadrack Owusu Osei, praised the students' discipline. He now aims for a third consecutive championship title. Mr. Osei also appealed for infrastructure investment. Improved facilities can strengthen teaching and training.
The quiz competition itself faces funding challenges. Osei Solomon Mensah, a coordinating secretary, stated this. The event is financed only by student dues. He asked the Ministry of Health for sponsorship. This support is needed to sustain and expand the initiative. The competition aims to promote academic excellence. It also fosters critical thinking and teamwork. Competent nurses and midwives are vital for saving lives.