In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing the healthcare system, Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has granted automatic employment to 54 postgraduate students who benefited from a foreign scholarship program to study health-related courses in India. The graduates, who studied at Symbiosis International University in Pune, India, returned to the state on Friday after completing their programs.
The announcement was made during a special reception and Iftar (Ramadan breaking of fast) hosted by the governor for the returning students. According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, Yusuf highlighted the state’s commitment to providing these scholars with immediate employment within the Kano State Civil Service.
“We have made all necessary arrangements to offer you automatic employment,” Yusuf stated, adding that the graduates would receive their appointment letters shortly through the Ministry of Health and in collaboration with the Head of Service. Furthermore, the governor emphasized that the newly implemented minimum wage of ₦71,000 and improved allowances for healthcare workers would ensure a better working environment for the graduates.
Governor Yusuf also expressed his concerns over individuals who had received government-sponsored education but had chosen to work outside of Kano. He urged the returning scholars to stay in the state and contribute to its development, particularly in addressing critical health issues like maternal mortality and sickle cell anemia.
“I am surprised to see beneficiaries of government scholarships working outside Kano instead of contributing to the state’s development,” Yusuf remarked. He called on the graduates to use their expertise to improve healthcare delivery in the state, especially for women and vulnerable groups.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to continuing the foreign scholarship program that was initiated by former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. “When we assumed office, we promised to sustain this initiative. Out of the 1,000 beneficiaries, 418 were sent to India and Uganda last year. All have graduated, while the remaining 68 students in India are expected to return by April,” he said.
The 54 returning scholars include 36 medical doctors, 11 pharmacists, 2 anatomists, and a radiographer. Many of the specialized courses they studied are the first of their kind in Kano and Northern Nigeria, a milestone that strengthens the state’s capacity to improve its healthcare services.
Kabiru Getso, the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Scholarship Board, praised the students for their academic achievements. “All the students excelled academically, completing their programs with impressive grades and no carryovers,” Getso noted, emphasizing the significance of their education in strengthening healthcare in Kano.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Dr. Yusuf Abdulmalik Abubakar, the group’s captain, expressed their gratitude to the Kano State Government. “Words are not enough to convey our gratitude. We are deeply thankful for this life-changing opportunity,” Abubakar said.
This bold move by Governor Yusuf reflects his administration’s commitment to both improving healthcare and retaining highly skilled professionals within the state, ensuring the continued growth and development of Kano’s health sector.
