The KNUST School of Medical Sciences (SMS) and the University of Utah have celebrated 20 years of collaboration in medical education and training, with both institutions recommitting to strengthening student exchanges, research, and clinical learning across borders.

At a ceremony held at the Medical Enclave in Boadi, the two institutions exchanged national and university flags to symbolise their continued cooperation.

KNUST SMS presented the Ghana flag and KNUST flag to the University of Utah, while Utah presented its state and U.S. flags to KNUST.

A special honour was given to Prof. Emeritus Devon Hale, one of the founding figures of the partnership.

He was presented with a traditional kente cloth in recognition of his role and for sustaining the relationship over the past two decades.

The event highlighted the impact of the student exchange programme, which has seen hundreds of students participate in cross-cultural and clinical training opportunities.

Prof. Ty Dickerson, Assistant Dean for Global Health Education at the University of Utah, revealed that 21 KNUST MBChB students have rotated through Utah’s clinical training programmes in recent years.

“Students benefit from exposure to different health systems, learning hands-on, and developing cultural sensitivity. Many return with a deeper appreciation for physical exams and resource-conscious medicine,” Prof. Dickerson said.

He added that the exchange has helped shape careers, with many alumni now holding leadership roles at the Ghana Health Service and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

Prof. Christian Agyare, Provost of the College of Health Sciences at KNUST, praised the role of faculty in sustaining the partnership through research and mentorship.

“Our faculty have worked hard over the years, not only in teaching but also in attracting research grants and advancing academic work. That commitment is what has kept this collaboration strong

“We don’t take this partnership for granted. It has added real value to our students, faculty, and our institution. We are grateful and we must work to sustain it,” he said.

During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Utah stood out as a reliable partner.

While many global institutions suspended exchanges, Utah continued to receive students from KNUST.

Prof. Chrissie Abaidoo, Head of Anatomy at KNUST, commended Utah’s commitment during that difficult period.

“Utah remained open to our students when nearly every other partner closed their doors. That’s a sign of a dependable relationship,” she said.

Prof. Abaidoo noted a drop in the number of annual student slots in recent years and appealed for financial support for needy but high-performing students who face challenges covering travel and related expenses.

The event also featured a lecture by Prof. Tsiri Agbenyega on the topic “Beyond the White Coat: Navigating Fellowship and/or PhD in Medical Practice,” followed by a panel discussion on academic career development in medicine.

The partnership, established in 2000s, continues to grow in scope, with both universities expressing optimism about its future direction.