By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo

The Acting Chief Medical Director of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH), Ondo, Dr Michael Olumide Gbala, has called for enhanced collaboration between medical institutions and healthcare facilities to improve service delivery in Ondo State.

Speaking on recent developments at the Medical facility, Dr.  Gbala emphasised the critical link between academic training and practical healthcare services. He noted that strategic leadership appointments in the sector should translate into tangible improvements in clinical services, research and medical education.

He said: As we welcome new leadership at UNIMED, it is imperative to strengthen the synergy between the university and the teaching hospital. Medical education must not be detached from the realities of healthcare delivery.

Dr  Gbala highlighted the contributions of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adesegun Fatusi, in fostering institutional growth, urging his successors to build on these achievements. He expressed optimism that the appointments of Professor Adolphus Loto as Acting Vice-Chancellor and Professor Ebun Adejuyigbe, as the third substantive Vice-Chancellor would drive further progress.

“We look forward to a leadership that prioritises collaboration, ensuring that research and training directly benefit patient care and community health,” he added.

He called on faculty members, students, and stakeholders to support initiatives that integrate academic excellence with practical healthcare solutions, emphasising that a stronger partnership between UNIMED and UNIMEDTH would elevate medical standards in Ondo State and beyond.