Members of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) have expressed reservations over the proposed name of the Lagos State University of Medicine and Health Science, arguing that it does not adequately represent all health disciplines.
During the public hearing on the establishment bill, PSN fellow Dr. Bola Oyawole noted that the term medicine narrows the focus of the institution, while health sciences is a broader field that encompasses medicine alongside other critical areas of healthcare.
He stressed that adopting University of Health Science as the name would better reflect inclusivity and balance among all health professions.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, acknowledged the concern, pointing out that the hearing provided an opportunity to improve the proposed legislation.
He explained that the government’s intention is for the new university to serve as a comprehensive institution accommodating all allied health professions.
If the bill is passed, the College of Medicine of the Lagos State University (LASUCOM) and other state-owned health institutions will be upgraded into the Lagos State University of Medicine and Health Science.
Reporting by Olusegun Haastrup