Nasarawa State College of Health Sciences and Technology recently inducted students of X-Ray Processing and graduated other students across various medical disciplines. The event, held at the College Auditorium in Keffi, attracted dignitaries including the State Commissioner for Health.
The Provost of the College, Dr. S. A. Muhammad, stated that it has become a standard practice of the institution to induct students before professional engagement while maintaining close collaboration with relevant professional bodies to ensure that graduates meet professional standards and mandates after training.
According to him, “Once we are satisfied that the students have demonstrated the required learning ability, skills, discipline, and character, they are assessed and inducted to proceed into professional medical practice.”
Dr. Muhammad disclosed that the X-Ray Processing programme was introduced about three years ago following approval by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). He expressed satisfaction with the performance of the students, noting that qualified graduates have been licensed to operate within their professional scope.
Speaking on the quality of graduates produced by the institution, the Provost emphasized that professional bodies play a significant role in evaluating students, adding that many students record excellent performance ratings.
He further stated that government support for the health sector has enhanced competitiveness and improved the quality of training within the institution. According to him, the college has consistently maintained high academic standards over the years, with most professional programmes lasting three years.
He explained that following the 2023 circular indicating that professional certificates alone would no longer be sufficient, colleges were advised to align with the National Board for Technical Education curriculum structure. Under this arrangement, the National Diploma programme runs for two years and includes practical training and practicum.
The Provost further explained that after graduation, students are expected to undergo supervised practical experience for one year. In polytechnics, this is known as SIWES (Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme), while colleges of education refer to it as practicum. He added that before the involvement of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), professional bodies were solely responsible for accreditation, student indexing, licensing, and graduation processes, which the institution has successfully complied with.