At least 69 medical students of the University of The Gambia (UTG) were formally inducted into clinical training over the weekend during a white coat ceremony.
Organised by the UTG Medical Students’ Association, the event marked the students’ transition from pre-clinical studies to hands-on hospital training. The ceremony, a defining milestone in medical education, was fully sponsored by Dr. Omar Jagne, Chief Executive Officer of Africmed International Hospital.
The students, forming UTG’s 22nd medical cohort, have spent the past four years studying foundational medical sciences. They will now begin clinical rotations, engaging directly with patients over the next two years before completing their six-year programme.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Jagne urged students to uphold discipline, honesty, and service to society. “Avoid corruption, remain committed, and always prioritise your patients,” he said, emphasizing that professionalism and integrity must guide their practice. He also encouraged compassion, especially towards the less privileged, and the application of classroom values in real-life hospital settings.
Dr. Cherno Jallow of Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital commended the students for reaching a key stage in their training. He reminded them that clinical practice brings greater responsibility, calling on them to maintain confidentiality, respect authority, and uphold ethical standards.
On behalf of the cohort, class prefect Gazali Kambi paid tribute to UTG Provost Professor Gabriel Ogun, describing him as a “quintessential servant leader” whose dedication has strengthened medical education at the university. He also acknowledged Dr. Jagne for his support in infrastructure, learning resources, and sponsorship of the white coats.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Ebrima Bojang recognized the university leadership, faculty, and student executives for their contributions, while praising Dr. Jagne as a “hero” of the association for his continued support.
The ceremony celebrated the students’ academic progress and underscored the responsibilities of the medical profession as they prepare for direct patient care.