UWI and University of Ghana Forge Transatlantic Medical Degree Partnership

In a landmark move to strengthen regional health education, the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus and the University of Ghana have launched a joint medical degree programme that enables graduates to practise in both Barbados and Ghana.

Announced on Wednesday during the forum “Reclaiming Our Atlantic Destiny: Connect. Rebuild. Renew” at UWI Cave Hill, the 3+3 curriculum allows students to complete three years of preclinical studies in Barbados followed by three years of clinical training in Ghana. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science in Preclinical Sciences from UWI and an MBChB from the University of Ghana – both degrees fully accredited by the respective national medical councils.

The initiative leverages complementary institutional strengths: UWI offers surplus preclinical teaching capacity, while Ghana provides extensive clinical training opportunities. The inaugural cohort—two Ghanaian students – was honored at the event.

Professor Clive Landis, Principal of UWI Cave Hill, credited the partnership as a model of South-South academic collaboration and noted the strategic importance of the visit by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who was on campus for the GUBA Awards and Investment Conference. “Your royal presence will amplify awareness in Ghana of this unique programme,” Landis said.

During his visit, the Asantehene also unveiled a portrait in his honor at the Hilary McDonald Beckles Administration Building – affectionately dubbed “The Golden Stool” – marking a symbolic bridge between West Africa and the Caribbean.