College of Oral Health Sciences Lauded

State Minister for Education, Youth and Information, Hon. Floyd Green, has lauded the College of Oral Health Sciences at the University of Technology (UTech) for its contribution to improved oral health practices in the country.

“You have done a fine job in setting yourself apart through excellence. You are not only good in the Jamaican context, but on the international stage your students are also performing at a high level,” he said.

He was delivering the keynote address at the College of Oral Health Science’s Sixth Annual White Coat Ceremony held on January 30 at the institution’s Old Hope Road address in Kinston.

The ceremony saw 53 Medical Dentistry and Dental Hygiene students advancing from theoretical to clinical practice, which will see the students performing practical dental procedures as a requirement for completion of their studies.

Mr. Green encouraged the students to continue to pursue excellence in their professional lives.

“Now you have finished, for the large part, your studies in the classroom and you move into the clinics where you will learn and practise as an oral health professional for the rest of your career. By donning your white coat, you have pledged to provide the highest standard of ethical care to your patients to fulfil that part of health and wellness in the society,” he said.

Mr. Green encouraged the dental students to partner with the Ministry of Education in promoting proper oral health practices at early-childhood institutions across the island to prevent myriad dental complications in adulthood.

“I encourage you to go back to your former schools and teach them about proper oral hygiene. Start teaching them at an early age, because we have to develop a culture of proper practice when it comes to oral health,” the State Minister said.

Mr. Green pointed out that despite improved oral health practices in the country, challenges remain, particularly in the rural areas, and urged the dental students to provide these essential services free of cost to persons of limited economic means and the destitute.

“You have a social responsibility to give back to those less fortunate. In the school, you have been cultivating that social responsibility going to various parts of Jamaica and serving. When you pass your final hurdle and are professionals, continue to serve. Look in your community and see how you can help,” he implored.

The College of Oral Health Sciences offers Bachelor of Science programmes in Dental Laboratory Technology, Dental Nursing Therapy and Dental Hygiene; Diploma in Dental Assisting, and Doctor of Medical Dentistry.