The University of Medicine and Health Sciences Bill has been committed to the Lagos Assembly Joint Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Health Services for further legislative and public scrutiny.
The Joint Committee is expected to report its findings to the House within three weeks.
This was disclosed by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, after lawmakers debated its merits and demerits.
The Bill, which seeks to establish and constitute the University of Medicine and Health Sciences for the State, is aimed at strengthening the health sector by producing highly skilled professionals through specialised tertiary education, as well as expanding access to courses in medicine, nursing, and other health sciences.
Speaking on the proposed Bill, Hon. Ajani Owolabi, Chairman of the Committee on Tertiary Institutions, explained that the institution would help increase admission opportunities for medical students.
Currently, most medical schools admit fewer than 100 students yearly. “With this Bill, admissions could grow to over a thousand, creating wider access to training in medical studies,” he said.
Contributing, Hon. Musbau Lawal stressed that the establishment of the University would benefit Lagosians, curb the “relocation syndrome” among youths seeking medical knowledge abroad, and address the shortage of doctors and health professionals.
He cited existing institutions such as LASUCOM as models.
Hon. Saheed Obafemi noted that the Bill would not only tackle unemployment by providing jobs in the health and education sectors but also boost the State’s economy.
