Africa’s First Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme Launches at Ghanaian University
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) made history on Monday, July 7, 2025, by launching Africa’s first Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme (ONLEP). The groundbreaking initiative addresses the continent’s critical shortage of specialized cancer care professionals.
UHAS officials unveiled the programme during a ceremony that marks a significant milestone in African healthcare education. The ONLEP specifically targets the development of skilled oncology nurses who can lead cancer treatment teams across the continent.
The programme arrives as Africa faces a growing cancer burden with limited specialized healthcare infrastructure. Current statistics show the continent has fewer than 1,000 trained oncology nurses serving a population exceeding 1.3 billion people.
ONLEP will train nurses in advanced cancer care techniques, patient management, and leadership skills essential for establishing oncology departments. The curriculum covers chemotherapy administration, radiation therapy support, palliative care, and healthcare team coordination.
The University of Health and Allied Sciences, located in Ghana’s Volta Region, partnered with international oncology organizations to develop the programme’s comprehensive framework. The initiative represents a crucial step toward building sustainable cancer care capacity across African nations.
Healthcare experts expect the programme to produce its first graduates within 18 months, with plans to expand to additional African universities by 2027. The ONLEP addresses urgent workforce needs while establishing Ghana as a regional leader in oncology education.
