Free Health Campaign by Medical Students of FOMIC Polytechnic University
In line with its commitment to community health, service, and experiential learning, the School of Medical and Biomedical Sciences at FOMIC Polytechnic University recently organized a Free Health Campaign that brought together students, lecturers, and healthcare professionals in a collective effort to improve public well-being.
The campaign, held at several community health centers and outreach points across Buea and Limbe, was designed to provide free medical consultations, basic treatments, health education, and preventive screenings to residents. Under the guidance of Dr. Damian Ekwi, Head of the School of Medical and Biomedical Sciences, the event demonstrated the university’s vision of combining academic excellence with social responsibility.
Promoting Health Awareness Through Service
Throughout the campaign, medical and biomedical students actively engaged with the local population, offering services such as blood pressure checks, malaria testing, blood glucose screening, BMI measurement, and counseling on diet, hygiene, and preventive healthcare. The turnout exceeded expectations, with hundreds of residents including children, adults, and the elderly benefiting from the free medical services provided.
Students not only applied their classroom knowledge in real-life contexts but also developed empathy, communication skills, and teamwork, which are vital for their future medical careers. The event provided them with a deeper understanding of the healthcare challenges faced by under-served communities and the importance of outreach programs in addressing them.
Empowering Future Healthcare Professionals
For the students, the Free Health Campaign served as an invaluable opportunity for hands-on experience under professional supervision. Faculty members guided the teams, ensuring that procedures and patient interactions followed ethical and clinical standards. The initiative also strengthened students’ sense of civic duty and reaffirmed FOMIC Polytechnic’s mission to produce healthcare professionals who are not only skilled but also compassionate and community-oriented.
“Seeing the gratitude in people’s eyes reminded us that healthcare goes beyond theory , it’s about making real change in people’s lives,” said one of the participating nursing students.
Community Impact and Institutional Commitment
The event reinforced FOMIC’s strong relationship with the local community and emphasized the university’s belief that education must extend beyond the classroom. By bringing healthcare directly to the people, the institution demonstrated how practical learning can make a tangible difference in society.
The Free Health Campaign was more than a one-day event — it was a statement of purpose. It showcased FOMIC Polytechnic University’s ongoing dedication to academic excellence through service, research, and innovation. Plans are already underway to make the health campaign a recurring initiative, extending outreach to rural areas and expanding the scope of medical services offered.
Through efforts like this, FOMIC Polytechnic University continues to uphold its motto of Academic and Professional Excellence, preparing future healthcare leaders who serve with knowledge, compassion, and integrity.
