MONROVIA – In a significant step towards strengthening Liberia’s healthcare system, the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts (TNIMA) held a one-day workshop at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFKMC) to validate its new Radiography curriculum. The event, hosted in the hospital’s lobby, brought together key stakeholders in the medical field to brainstorm and outline the structure of this essential program.

During the workshop, Dr. J. Emmanuel Tamba, Chief Medical Officer of JFKMC, highlighted the urgent need for skilled radiographers in Liberia. “We are facing a shortage of trained radiographers in the country, which limits our ability to provide accurate medical imaging for diagnoses,” he said. Dr. Tamba credited Dr. Louise Kpoto, Minister of Health, for recognizing this critical gap and pushing for the introduction of Radiography into TNIMA’s curriculum. “This program will be instrumental in training more radiographers to fill the void in our healthcare system,” he added.

The workshop focused on developing a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills needed to perform medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Radiography is a specialized field vital for diagnosing medical conditions, yet Liberia faces a severe shortage of professionals qualified to carry out these procedures. As the healthcare sector continues to evolve, the demand for radiographers has increased, with major hospitals across the country, including JFKMC, in desperate need of these professionals.

Dr. Kebbeh, along with two other radiologists currently assigned to JFKMC, will play a key role in shaping the program. The faculty will also include qualified instructors with bachelor’s degrees in Radiography to ensure students receive high-quality education.

Once established, the Radiography program will be accredited by the Allied Health Science Board and will partner with several clinical educational sites, including JFK Medical Center’s Radiology Department, the 14 Military Hospital, Schieffelin Health Center in Margibi County, Redemption Hospital in New Kru Town, and Jahmale Medical Solutions in Paynesville. These facilities will provide practical training opportunities for students, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings.

Dr. Tamba emphasized the importance of this new development, noting that the creation of a Radiography program will not only benefit the healthcare system but also offer career opportunities for aspiring medical professionals in Liberia. “By training more radiographers, we are investing in the future of healthcare in our country, ensuring that more people have access to quality diagnostic services,” he said.

The introduction of this curriculum marks a promising development for TNIMA and the country’s health sector, as it strives to meet the growing demand for specialized medical care.