Bill seeking establishment of teaching hospital in Manchok passes second reading

The Senate on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Applied Sciences Teaching Hospital in Manchok, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State

The proposed legislation, sponsored by the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, was debated on the floor of the Red Chamber on Tuesday before receiving the support of lawmakers.

Leading the debate, Senator Katung explained that the proposed teaching hospital had become imperative following the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia that requires a teaching hospital to effectively train medical students and other healthcare professionals.

According to him, “The hospital will provide clinical training for medical doctors, nurses and allied health professionals, while expanding access to specialist healthcare services for residents of Southern Kaduna and neighbouring communities.”

He added that the project would create employment opportunities, strengthen healthcare infrastructure and address the shortage of tertiary medical facilities in the region.

Presiding over the session, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, described the bill as straightforward, saying that the proposed institution will fill a critical gap in healthcare delivery and medical education in Kaduna South, Kaduna state and the country as a whole.

Senator Barau recalled that he sponsored the bill establishing the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, which is now operational.

Following a voice vote, the Senate passed the bill for second reading and referred it to the relevant Senate Committee on Health Institutions for further legislative action and  to report to the floor of the Senate in four weeks.