Dr. Ugai emphasizes that access to dental care is essential healthcare, not a luxury. Lack of access leads to serious health problems, particularly for children. In Guinea, 40% of children aged 1-9 have untreated cavities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a severe shortage of dental professionals in Africa – just 3.3 dentists per 100,000 people. This low ratio, coupled with limited access to proper training, leaves vast populations without basic dental care.
Driven by faith and a desire to give back, Dr. Ugai began volunteering with Mercy Ships in 2012. He highlights the critical need for dental education in Africa, particularly in Guinea, where oral diseases are a major concern.
The rise of sugary drinks and processed foods has led to a surge in dental cavities across Africa. Untreated cavities have serious health consequences.
Dr. Ugai emphasizes the need for a comprehensive solution, focusing on education and training future dental professionals.
In 2018, Mercy Ships launched a partnership with UGANC, the only public dental school in Guinea. This collaboration aims to provide students with high-quality, practical training, preparing them for global accreditation standards.
Funding remains a critical challenge for dental schools in Africa. The expansion will address this by increasing capacity, providing resources, and offering real-world experience for students.
The expansion will double student capacity and contribute to developing skilled dentists who can address the needs of Guinea and Africa as a whole. International accreditation is a future goal to further enhance the program’s impact.
By training more dentists and equipping them for rural and underserved regions, a ripple effect will be created. These professionals can then shape the future of dental care in their communities.
The UGANC partnership is serving as a model for future collaborations. Students from various African nations are already benefiting from this program, with plans to expand further.
Dr. Ugai emphasizes that this partnership is not a quick fix, but a crucial step towards building a stronger dental care system throughout Africa. With more skilled professionals, the future of dental care on the continent looks brighter.
ABJ/APA