Professor Taiwo Asaolu, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa (UNILESA), has emphasized the need for enhanced welfare and better pay for healthcare practitioners.
Asaolu opposed the notion of enforcing a mandatory period of service within the country for medical graduates before allowing them to seek opportunities abroad.
During the inauguration of a hostel for nursing students at the university, the UNILESA VC highlighted the importance of the federal government revamping the economy to create an appealing work environment for graduates, encouraging them to contribute their skills locally.
“If we had increased the cost of training for these medical students, some of them would still have paid.
“So, it is convenient for the government to pay, and that is why they are paying. I am not into bonding them (placing medical students in training on bond to prevent them from leaving immediately after completing training).
“Most of them would not have left the country if the labour market was right. If they are paid the right wages, they won’t leave. If the cost of living is okay, they will not leave. We just have to get it right.
“It is normal for someone to gravitate towards where his lots would be better. The government should make the economy okay and provide basic amenities.”
