Professor Mrs. Victoria Bam, the President of the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives (GCNM), has urgently appealed to the government to fill the vacant positions left by over 4,000 nurses who have migrated in search of better opportunities.

She stressed the necessity of this action, citing concerns about the potential burnout and stress faced by the remaining nurses due to the shortage.

Speaking during the College's eighth Annual General Meeting (AGM) and fourth scientific conference in Gomoa Fetteh, Central Region, Prof. Mrs. Bam identified poor remuneration and working conditions as major factors contributing to the alarming migration rate.

She emphasized that addressing these issues is crucial to retaining skilled healthcare professionals.

The GCNM President expressed her worry over the inadequate resources available in healthcare facilities and called on the government to provide the necessary resources to enhance their efficiency.

She highlighted the frustration nurses experience when they possess the skills and knowledge to help patients but lack the basic resources to do so.

Ms. Hannah Akua Oparebea Acquah, the Rector of GCNM, emphasized that providing opportunities for professional growth through higher education is a vital way to motivate and retain the critical nursing workforce.

Reverend Mrs. Veronica Darko, Former Registrar of the Nurses and Midwives Council stressed the importance of innovation and commitment to improving lives in the journey toward Universal Health Coverage.

Mr. Kwaku Agyeman Manu, the Minister of Health, emphasized the positive impact of empowering and developing nurses and midwives through specialization in achieving Universal Health Coverage and Sustainable Development Goals.

The conference aimed to facilitate networking, idea sharing, discussion of challenges and progress, and projections for the future.

Additionally, this year's conference celebrated the 10th anniversary of specialist nursing and midwifery training in Ghana, inducting 49 Associate members and 178 members who met all necessary requirements into the College.