- Provost charges new sanitarians on accountability, excellence
By John Dike, Osogbo
No fewer than 55 graduates of Environmental Health Science from the Osun State College of Health Technology (OSCO-HEALTH), Ilesa, have been formally inducted into the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), with a charge to uphold the ethics of the profession and contribute meaningfully to public health and environmental safety.
The induction ceremony, which attracted dignitaries, health professionals, lecturers, students and family members, marked a significant milestone in the academic and professional journey of the graduates as they joined the ranks of certified Environmental Health Practitioners in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Provost of the College, Dr. Lateef Olarewaju Raheem, urged the newly inducted Sanitarians to remain committed to the oath of their profession and recognize the enormous responsibility placed upon them in safeguarding public health.
Represented by the College Registrar, Mr. Moshood Afolabi, the Provost reminded the graduates that society and government depend on Environmental Health Practitioners to prevent diseases, ensure healthy living conditions and protect communities from environmental hazards.
According to him, the role of a Sanitarian extends beyond enforcement of environmental regulations to include public education and advocacy.
“You must be more than an enforcer. You must become educators and advocates in the field of environmental health for the safety and well-being of all citizens.
The profession requires dedication, integrity and continuous learning,” he said.
Dr. Raheem described the induction as a foundation for greater achievements and encouraged the graduates to pursue higher academic qualifications and professional development opportunities to remain relevant in the ever-evolving health sector.
The Provost stressed that continuous education would enable them to stay abreast of emerging trends and innovations in environmental health practice.
In his keynote address, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria, Dr. Yakubu Muhammad Baba, congratulated the new inductees for successfully completing their academic training and joining a profession dedicated to the protection of lives and communities.
Represented by the Director of Registration and Licensing of the Council, Sanitarian Bola Ibrahim, the EHCON boss emphasized the critical role Environmental Health Practitioners play in disease prevention and public health promotion.
He noted that while the work of Environmental Health Professionals often goes unnoticed, their contributions are reflected in the health crises they prevent and the lives they protect.
“The certificate you hold today is evidence of academic achievement. However, your reputation in the profession will be determined by your competence, character and commitment to service,” he stated.
Dr. Baba urged the new professionals to allow their work to speak for them by demonstrating professionalism, ethical conduct and measurable impact in their various communities.
“Let your work speak for the profession. Be active in your communities. Contribute to public health programmes. Participate in professional activities. Demonstrate the value of Environmental Health through measurable impact,” he advised.
The EHCON Registrar also reminded the inductees that professional registration is an ongoing responsibility and not merely a one-time exercise.
According to him, possession of a valid practising licence remains a legal requirement for Environmental Health Practitioners in Nigeria.
“Your licence to practise is the legal instrument that authorizes you to operate as an Environmental Health Professional in Nigeria. I therefore urge you to cultivate the habit of renewing your practising licences promptly as and when due,” he added.
In a goodwill message, the Director of the School of Environmental Health Sciences, OSCO-HEALTH, Sanitarian Bamidele Adebayor, congratulated the inductees on their success and praised their determination, resilience and commitment throughout their period of study.
He expressed confidence in their ability to make meaningful contributions to the profession and society.
Similarly, the Head of Department of Environmental Health at the College, Sanitarian Adebare Musibau, appreciated the management of the institution for its unwavering support towards the growth and development of the department.
He described the induction as another testament to the college’s commitment to producing competent and professionally equipped Environmental Health Practitioners.
The ceremony featured the administration of the professional oath, presentation of certificates and induction materials to the graduates amid cheers from family members, friends and well-wishers.
Speaking on behalf of the inductees shortly after the ceremony, Sanitarian Akinfenwa Goodnews Oluwapelumi expressed joy and gratitude over the successful completion of her training and induction into the profession.
She pledged to uphold the ethics, values and standards of Environmental Health practice at all times.
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The newly inducted Sanitarian also appreciated her parents for their sacrifices and unwavering support throughout her academic journey.
She equally commended her lecturers and mentors for their dedication in shaping her into a competent Environmental Health Professional.
“I am grateful to my parents for their sacrifices and support throughout my studies. I also appreciate my lecturers for their commitment and guidance in moulding me into the professional I am today. I promise to uphold the ethics and values of the profession wherever I find myself,” she said.
The induction ceremony ended on a celebratory note as the new professionals formally joined the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria, ready to contribute their quota towards improving environmental sanitation, disease prevention and public health development across the country.
