Principal Secretary (PS) for Labour and Skills Development, Shadrack Mwadime, was honored today for his pivotal role in advocating for the recognition of Kenyan Clinical Officers as Physician Associates in the United Kingdom. His leadership and tireless efforts were acknowledged during a meeting with the Clinical Officers Practitioners Association (GACOPA), where significant strides in global professional mobility were celebrated.
PS Mwadime commended the contributions of GACOPA in securing this landmark decision by the UK General Medical Council, which now paves the way for Kenyan Clinical Officers to gain employment opportunities and international recognition in the UK healthcare system. The recognition as Physician Associates in the UK is a major milestone for the Kenyan healthcare workforce, as it broadens career prospects and establishes Kenyan-trained professionals on the global stage.
During the meeting, PS Mwadime emphasized the Kenyan government's commitment to expanding global opportunities for Clinical Officers and healthcare professionals at large. He revealed plans to develop a coordinated framework that will facilitate overseas employment and ensure that qualified professionals can seamlessly transition into international healthcare settings.
"I appreciate the efforts of GACOPA in securing this landmark decision by the UK General Medical Council, which opens up new avenues for employment and international recognition for healthcare professionals from Kenya,” said PS Mwadime. "The government's commitment to expanding global opportunities for Kenyan Clinical Officers is commendable, and the announcement of plans to develop a coordinated framework for overseas employment facilitation is a significant step towards achieving this goal."
The PS also revealed that bilateral talks with the UK, Germany, and Austria are underway to establish a structured and ethical migration process for Clinical Officers seeking certification and employment as Physician Associates. These discussions are crucial in ensuring that the migration process remains transparent, ethical, and beneficial to both Kenyan professionals and the host countries.
This development represents a critical step toward enhancing Kenya’s skilled workforce exportation while maintaining high standards in local healthcare service delivery. The recognition of Clinical Officers as Physician Associates not only enhances their global employment prospects but also strengthens Kenya’s reputation as a source of highly trained healthcare professionals.
PS Mwadime’s leadership continues to drive significant improvements in the healthcare sector, reflecting the government’s dedication to supporting the professional growth and global recognition of Kenyan Clinical Officers. His work is a testament to Kenya's commitment to creating more pathways for employment and international collaboration in the healthcare field.
