The University of Benin (UNIBEN) is set to launch Occupational Therapy and Speech/Audiology programmes, marking a significant step forward in healthcare education in Nigeria.
This development follows an advocacy visit led by Dr. Victoria Amu, whose dedication to expanding access to these crucial fields of study has been instrumental in driving this initiative.
During the visit, Dr. Amu and her team engaged in strategic discussions with the Vice Chancellor of UNIBEN, Professor Edoba B. Omoregie, SAN, and other key university officials. The focus of these discussions was to establish the framework for integrating the Occupational Therapy and Speech/Audiology programmes into the university’s academic structure.
Dr. Amu said the introduction of these disciplines will not only create academic opportunities but also strengthen the nation’s capacity in rehabilitative healthcare delivery.
The Vice Chancellor expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative and lauded Dr. Amu’s efforts to strengthen healthcare education in Nigeria.Professor Omoregie assured that UNIBEN is fully prepared to commence the Occupational Therapy and Speech/Audiology programmes by the 2026/2027 academic session.
This commitment underscores the university’s dedication to providing quality education and addressing the growing need for skilled professionals in these specialized areas of healthcare.
Present at the meeting were notable professionals, including Prof. Ahmed Rufai, Registrar of the Medical Rehabilitation Therapist Board, who assured the Vice Chancellor of the Board support during Programme accreditation.
Other are Mrs. Omodaranle Deborah Oluwatoyin, Assistant Director and Speech and Language Therapist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH); Mr. Oluwasegun Ayeni, Acting Head of Department, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State; and Mr. Adediji Adeolu, Head of Department, University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
Dr. Victoria Amu is the director of occupational therapy and a key figure at the Edo Specialist Hospital. She is an occupational therapist who established the first occupational therapy department at a government hospital in Edo State and has been instrumental in promoting the field in Nigeria.
