Bissau:Prime Minister Ilídio Vieira Té emphasized the importance of cooperation with Cuba in the training of national health professionals. He spoke on Thursday while presiding over the 23rd Graduation Ceremony of Guinean doctors at the Cuban-Guinean Faculty of Medicine "Raúl Díaz Argüelles García" in Bissau.
According to Agencia de Noticias da Guine, the Prime Minister stated that the graduation symbolizes not only an academic achievement but also a tangible demonstration of the friendship and cooperation between Guinea-Bissau and Cuba. Vieira Té noted that the medical cooperation between the two countries began in 1976 with the arrival of the first Cuban doctors in Guinea-Bissau, and the Faculty was established in 1986.
Vieira Té highlighted that over 90 percent of doctors currently serving in the Guinean National Health System received their training at this institution, supported by Cuban professors. Addressing the new graduates, the Prime Minister urged them to demonstrate commitment to public service, competence, and dedication to communities, particularly in rural and interior regions of the country.
He also pointed out that Guinea-Bissau continues to face significant health challenges, including combating malaria, diarrheal diseases, and maternal and infant mortality, underscoring the need to strengthen health services. In this regard, Vieira Té asserted the necessity for doctors willing to work in remote areas and outside major urban centers, applying their acquired knowledge to benefit the most vulnerable populations.
Additionally, the Prime Minister acknowledged that working conditions in the health sector are not yet ideal, but assured that the government is committed to creating better conditions for the medical profession. He also expressed the Guinean people's gratitude to the Cuban Medical Brigade and the teachers who have contributed to the training of health professionals in the country over several decades, despite Cuba's own economic challenges.