The University of Rwanda-College of Medicine and Health Sciences (UR-CMHS) has inaugurated a new physiotherapy and occupational therapy laboratory. The facility is set to serve as a practical teaching space for students pursuing physiotherapy and occupational therapy, as well as a hub for professional development and research in that field. With cutting-edge equipment, this new lab promises to offer an immersive and hands-on learning experience for students looking to pursue careers in healthcare. ALSO READ: Physiotherapy: A must-have for healthcare givers Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a branch of healthcare that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of physical impairments, disabilities, and pain while occupational therapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on helping people achieve their full potential in their daily activities, also known as occupations. At the inauguration event on March 15, the Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, expressed his enthusiasm about the new physiotherapy and occupational therapy laboratory at UR-CMHS. He emphasized the importance of investing in education and providing students with access to the latest equipment and technology, which will ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients. With an increasing need for rehabilitation services in Rwanda, the Minister urged the university to use the new lab to train high-quality healthcare professionals who can address this demand. As life expectancy continues to rise in Rwanda, the Minister highlighted the critical role that physiotherapy and occupational therapy will play in ensuring the health and well-being of the country's aging population, hence the need of the lab. ALSO READ: Why occupational therapy must be integrated in medical system According to Dr. Assuman Nuhu, a lecturer in the Physiotherapy Department at the college, the previous physiotherapy and occupational therapy laboratories were not up to the necessary standard for effective student training. This, he said, pushed the college to work with various partners to create modern, state-of-the-art facilities to better equip their students. The new laboratory is equipped with a range of advanced equipment, including tools for assisting children with physical disabilities, aiding those with fractures, teaching students how to help patients with respiratory problems, and facilitating rehabilitation. ALSO READ: Physiotherapy gives children with mental disability a second chance The second phase of the laboratory development project, which cost 120 million, was made possible thanks to partnerships with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Humanity Inclusion (HI), who provided equipment and support. In addition to providing training facilities for students, Dr. Nuhu noted that the college also plans to allow non-students to receive medical services at the lab.
