Kubori Nursing and Midwifery College, established in 2022 to expand access to health training for rural students, is grappling with a persistent water crisis that has worsened living and learning conditions for its over 600 students.

The college, located in the Mamprugu Moagduri District, has struggled to secure reliable access to potable water since its inception. Despite efforts by school authorities to drill two mechanized boreholes, the poor water table and unsuitable water quality have hindered their effectiveness, leaving students and staff dependent on external water sources at a high cost.

Water Scarcity Threatens Academic and Living Conditions

According to the College Principal, Timothy Duut, management has exhausted available options in an attempt to provide water for students.

“Our main challenge is the water situation. We’ve managed to construct two mechanized boreholes, but they are not enough to cater for the growing population. We are calling on well-resourced NGOs to come to our aid,” he appealed.

The situation has particularly taken a toll on the kitchen staff, who trek long distances daily to fetch water for food preparation. Assistant Matron, Yakubu Rabiatu, described the ordeal as exhausting and unsustainable, expressing hope for immediate intervention.

Beyond the college campus, the Kubori community itself faces similar water accessibility challenges due to the area’s difficult geological formation and a deep water table. Experts say a sustainable solution will require significant investment and engineering work.

Assembly Promises Lasting Solution for Kubori Enclave

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Mamprugu Moagduri, Abdul Aziz Rahman, acknowledged the severity of the crisis and assured that the Assembly is working to provide a long-term solution.

“The Assembly is much aware of the problem. It is not only Kubori, but Kubori and its environs. We are working tirelessly to secure a lasting solution to the water problem in this enclave,” he said.
“I won’t make promises, but I can assure you the Assembly will deliver a permanent water project to support especially the College, which receives visitors, students and tutors from different areas.”

Accommodation Deficit Adds to Rising Challenges

In addition to the water crisis, the college is battling acute accommodation shortages. With limited campus facilities, authorities have been compelled to house many students outside the school premises.

Principal Duut appealed for the continuation of a three-storey classroom block and a female hostel project initiated by an NGO and the Member of Parliament.

“If the Assembly completes the hostels, we will not have much challenge with accommodation,” he said.

Health Directorate Encourages Students to Uphold Professionalism

During the college’s 3rd matriculation ceremony for 200 new students, the District Director of Health Services, Kennedy Miah, urged matriculants to take advantage of the College’s existence in the district and commit to academic excellence.

He emphasized their future role in achieving Ghana’s universal health coverage agenda.

“Your journey to become health professionals has just begun. There will be ups and downs, but with your commitment and the dedication of your tutors, we believe you will become the next generation of quality health workers Ghana needs,” he stated.

A Vital Institution Facing Critical Infrastructure Gaps

The Kubori Nursing and Midwifery College remains a crucial institution, offering training in Registered Nursing, Registered Midwifery, and Registered Public Health Nursing. It was established to admit qualified SHS graduates who were unable to secure placement in other health training institutions due to the quota system.

However, its ability to meet growing demand hinges on urgent infrastructural interventions, particularly in water and accommodation.

As calls for assistance intensify, stakeholders hope that government agencies, NGOs, and development partners will collaborate to secure sustainable water and infrastructural solutions for the college and the wider Kubori community.