Earlier in June, the Ebonyi State University (EBSU) Medical Students Association (EBSUMSA) hosted the Nigerian Medical Students Association (NiMSA) Health Week, tagged, “MAK NiMSA Health Week“.
The MAK NiMSA Health Week which held from 6th to 9th of June, 2024 at the Ebonyi State University in Abakaliki was a monumental event that brought together more than 500 delegates from over 30 medical schools across Nigeria. The week-long celebration was packed with exciting events, informative sessions, and thrilling activities that left a lasting impression on all attendees.
Day 1: Arrival, Registration and Karaoke Night
The event kicked off with the arrival of delegates from various medical schools all over the nation. The atmosphere was electric, with old friends reuniting and new connections being made. The evening was filled with a thrilling karaoke night, where students showcased their vocal talents and set the tone for an unforgettable week.
Day 2: Symposium/Advocacy Training, Opening Ceremony, Football Match and Bonfire
The morning of Day 2 began with the academic symposium, featuring esteemed guests such as Prof. Chuks Oswald Edeogu (EBSU Director of Academic Planning), Dr. Lilian Nwaobashi (MWAN President, Ebonyi State Chapter), and the popular “Healthertainer” – Dr. Okoro Kelechi – the Keynote Speaker. Others include Prof. Mrs Ugwu Ngozi (Dean Faculty of Clinical Sciences, EBSU), Representative from the state Ministry of Health, distinguished panellists among other dignitaries.
The opening ceremony which followed was a grand affair, marking the official commencement of the health week. During the keynote lecture, the speaker dissected the theme of the event centred on “Advocacy as a fundamental tool for health advancement”. There also was a display of culture and fun fare by dance troupes and Saxophonists to entertain guests, with several goodwill speeches and welcome remarks from dignitaries present to create a perfect atmosphere for the visitors.
In the afternoon, the highly anticipated football match took place at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium between NiMSA All Stars and EBSUMSA All Stars. The intense competition ended with a draw of 1-1. And the night was capped off with what was arguably the best bonfire event Nigerian medical students has ever witnessed. The atmosphere was filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie, as students from different schools came together to celebrate their shared passion for medicine and life.
Day 3: Rural Medical Outreach, Tour, Dinner and Awards Night
The third day of the health week started with a community medical outreach program at Ogbete Primary School, Oferekpe-Izzi, Ebonyi State, where students engaged in health education and awareness activities. In the afternoon, a tour of the Dave Umahi University Teaching Hospital, Uburu, provided insight into the healthcare system.
“The teaching hospital (DUFUTH) is actually a beautiful work of art with lots of modern health equipment” ~ Chibuike Maryfaith, Technical Officer on Maternal Health and Child Nutrition-NIMSA 2024
In the evening, a dinner and awards night was held at Remeritona Hotels, attended by distinguished guests, including the Commissioner for Health, DUFUTH CMD, MWAN President, and Doctors across the state. The NIMSA President also graced the occasion including other past NiMSA Leaders and Alumni. The event celebrated outstanding achievements and recognized excellence in various fields. The night ended with a thrilling party at Real Xclusive Palace in Abakiliki, where students let loose and enjoyed music, dancing and making good merry.
Day 4: Departure/Thanksgiving service
The final day saw the departure of delegates, marking the end of an unforgettable week. As students bade farewell, they carried with them memories of new friendships, knowledge, and experiences that will last a lifetime.
Speaking with one of the participants on her experience at the health week, she stated that “to me, this was an avenue for reunion with most friends from other MSA’s and make new ones. Also, during the symposium, I was opportune to meet the popular healthertainer, Dr Kelechi Okoro, who spoke to us on how we could be more than just medical students. She enlightened us on how best to grab opportunities – even as students – and encouraged us to do more of health advocacy as students. Additionally, beyond the football game and fun of inter school dance competition with cash prizes and gift won during the bonfire, medicoenterpreneurs present at the event also had the opportunity to showcase and sell their goods and products to participants”.
“Overall, the health week was a very interesting one. The food, the accommodation, the event line-up and every other part of it was wonderful. I met with a lot of NiMSA alumni and had conversations on how to best to implement all that was thought by our leaders and senior colleagues during the symposium, outreach and dinner” ~ Chibuike Maryfaith, Technical Officer on Maternal Health and Child Nutrition-NIMSA 2024
In conclusion, according to the MAK ’24 Local Organising Commitee (LOC) Chairman, Esheya Nelson, “the MAK NiMSA Health Week was a resounding success, exceeding expectations in every aspect. The event provided a platform for medical students to network, learn, and have fun. The organizing committee deserves commendation for their tireless efforts in making this event a memorable one. We look forward to future events that will continue to unite and inspire medical students across Nigeria”.
Editor’s note:
This abridged report was collated by the Chairman and Members of the MAK NiMSA Health Week Local Organising Committee (LOC) 2024.
