UNIBEN plans occupational therapy, speech/audiology programmes for 2026/2027

The management of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has expressed its readiness to start the Occupational Therapy and Speech/Audiology programmes in the 2026/2027 academic session.

The Vice Chancellor of UNIBEN, Prof. Edoba Omoregie (SAN), said this on Friday in Benin, following an advocacy visit to his office by Dr Victoria Amu, Director of Occupational Therapy at Edo Specialist Hospital, and her team.

During the visit, Amu, and her team engaged in strategic discussions with the vice chancellor and other key officials.

The discussions focused on establishing the framework for integrating the Occupational Therapy and Speech/Audiology programmes into the university’s academic structure.

Omoregie expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative and lauded Amu’s efforts to strengthen healthcare education in Nigeria.

Earlier, Amu said the introduction of these disciplines would create academic opportunities and strengthen the nation’s capacity in rehabilitative healthcare delivery.

Our correspondent reports thatAmu established the first occupational therapy department at a government hospital in Edo and has been instrumental in promoting the field in Nigeria.

The meeting was attended by notable professionals, including Prof. Ahmed Rufai, Registrar of the Medical Rehabilitation Therapist Board, who assured the Vice Chancellor of the Board’s support during programme accreditation.

They highlighted their support for the integration of the occupational therapy and speech/audiology programmes and emphasised the potential benefits for students, professionals, and the nation’s healthcare sector.