The Council of Medico-Sanitary Professions in Cameroon has called for the abolition of HND/BTS and diploma-related programs in medical training offered by the Ministry of Higher Education.
This demand has sparked disagreement among private higher education stakeholders, who argue that training should meet global standards that encourage competence and competition.
During a recent press conference in Yaoundé, held alongside its general assembly, the Council of Medico Sanitary Professions expressed concerns about the proliferation of training schools outside the scope of the 1980 decree, which they believe compromises quality.
“This unregulated proliferation has inevitably led to a disparity in training programs, both initial and continuing,” stated Fobasso Dzeuta Melkior, President of the Council.
Melkior also pointed out the lack of standard recruitment criteria for trainers, which raises questions about the quality of education provided.
“Another major problem is the introduction of shortcuts leading to BTS/HND/DSEP/HPD diplomas in health. These fast-track courses cannot guarantee the acquisition of the knowledge and skills needed to practice in the healthcare field competently and ethically,” he said, drawing attention to Law No. 84-009 of December 5, 1984, which regulates the practice of nursing, midwifery, and medical-health technician professions.
Among other issues, the Council of Medico Sanitary Professions demanded “an immediate end to the training of BTS/HND/DSEP/HPD in health in Cameroon. These diplomas do not meet the training standards required to ensure that graduates have the skills needed to guarantee patient safety.”
The Council urged those wishing to pursue a career in the medical and healthcare professions to apply for the competitive examination organized by the Ministry of Public Health, pending the outcome of the inter-ministerial platform.
The ongoing disagreement between the Ministry of Higher Education and the Ministry of Public Health over the training of medical personnel has persisted for years without resolution.
Notably, the Ministry of Public Health runs its own training centers for medico-sanitary professionals in the country.
However, certificates from these centers are not recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education, and the Public Health Ministry has increased its opposition to HND-related programs in medical training.
Stakeholders have described the lack of harmonization between the two Ministries as regrettable .
While some attribute the conflict to greed, others see it as symptomatic of a government failing to work in the interest of all Cameroonians.
“The problems are political, managerial, and stem from a lack of understanding, capacity, and greed, as well as corruption, youth unemployment, demographic pressure, and poor development of professional skills,” said Dr. Nick Ngwanyam, a promoter of private higher education in Cameroon.
“This is more of an economic fight for market shares, with attempts to elbow out the Ministry of Higher Education.”
Dr. Shei Claude Nfor, Director of Shalom University Institute Bamenda, added, “Becoming a licensed health practitioner is not a matter of entrance examinations into training schools, as it does not guarantee the acquisition of the required skills. ‘Concours’ are highly corrupt with little or no meritocracy. They have destroyed this country by leaving no room for competence and competition.”
He suggested that Cameroon should start adapting to global practices by organizing board exams after training to admit skilled professionals.
