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Belmopan, Thursday, August 8, 2024
Dr. Lisa Johnson is one of Belize’s shining stars. Speaking today at the opening of the University of Belize School of Medicine at its central campus in Belmopan, she said when the national university was founded in 2000, no one could have imagined “that we would be where we are today.” She described the opening of the School of Medicine as “a remarkable event”, not only in the history of the university but also in the history of the country as a whole. Dr. Johnson is now the new Dean of the University of Belize School of Medicine.
Dr. Vincent Palacio, president of the University of Belize, called this a “significant step forward” for the university, Belize and the region. He declared that this is not only about the expansion of the school, but also “about a critical need of our country: the need for qualified, skilled, and compassionate health care professionals who are ready to meet the challenges of our health care system.” He added that the launch is “highly consistent with the standards set by the World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization for universal health care.” Dr. Palacio said the vision of the University of Belize School of Medicine is to “provide world-class medical education that meets the highest standards of academic and professional excellence.”
The curriculum is described as rigorous and comprehensive, lasting five years and designed to meet the standards set by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Dr. Johnson commented, “Our curriculum will reflect both traditional rigor and new technology.” Courses include medical biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, community health, clinical practice, medical cases and other courses, including nutrition and genetics and even toxicology. The university already offers an associate degree program to prepare students for admission to the UB School of Medicine.
Today, Dr. Palacio announced that they are submitting an application for accreditation to the Caribbean Accreditation Agency for Education for Medicine and Other Health Professionals (CAAM-HP) to ensure that the University at Buffalo School of Medicine meets the highest standards of medical education and prepares graduates to excel in their careers in medicine. He said accreditation meetings have been intense and frequent. The university has hired a consultant from the University of Guyana, Professor Emmanuel Cummings, to provide technical assistance for the project.
So far, 14 students have signed up for the new program at the University at Buffalo, some of whom will have to take a qualifying exam. The school will initially enroll 35 students, but plans to expand in the future. Students will primarily do clinical practice at Carl Huesner Memorial Hospital.
Today, the Minister of Health and Wellness, Kevin Bernard, announced that they will be providing scholarships to 4 students to attend the University of Belize School of Medicine. Bernard said today’s milestone is a testament to the dedication, hard work and visionary leadership of all involved and “reflects the institution’s unwavering commitment to advancing medical education and training in our dear country.” The Minister congratulated the Board of Trustees, Administration, and Faculty and Staff for turning this dream into a reality. He also had a message for the students who will be walking into this new medical school… You are the future of healthcare in Belize. Seize this opportunity with passion and determination, for the journey you embark on today will impact the health and well-being of our country for generations to come.” He also pledged to work with the University to ensure that the School of Medicine “is not only accredited, but becomes a beacon of medical excellence in the Caribbean.”
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