Mercy Ships Expands Global Impact with Inauguration of Dental Care Training Center in Conakry

Mercy Ships, the humanitarian organization known for providing essential medical care through hospital ships on Wednesday held an inauguration of a new Dental Care Training Center at the Gamal Abdel Nasser University of Conakry (UGANC) in Guinea.

Since 1990, Mercy Ships has focused much of its humanitarian work on the African continent, deploying the world’s largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy and Global Mercy.

The event marked another milestone in Mercy Ships’ efforts to support education and practical training in healthcare, particularly in dental care.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by esteemed guests, including representatives from UGANC, Guinea’s Ministry of Higher Education, and Mercy Ships. Dr. Mohamed Sid-Dick Fadiga, Head of the Dentistry Department, opened the ceremony, followed by speeches from university leaders, including Dean Prof. Mohamed Cissé, Guinea’s Minister of Higher Education, Mr Alpha Bacar Barry and Dr. David Ugai, Guinea Country Director of Mercy Ships.

The new training center is part of Mercy Ships’ Education, Training, and Advocacy (ETA) program, which seeks to develop skilled healthcare professionals through partnerships with local institutions.

The program focuses on creating sustainable educational environments and supports ongoing learning for students and professionals alike.

Mercy Ships’ partnership with UGANC began in May 2018, when the Africa Mercy arrived in Guinea. During the 10-month mission, the Dentistry Department was transformed into a fully functioning dental clinic, and four students received clinical mentorship.

This collaboration continued even after the ship’s departure, with further renovations to the dental department, including the addition of a prosthetics lab and a simulation room.

The ongoing partnership has expanded to include international exchange programs, with dental students from Sierra Leone, Madagascar, Benin, and Guinea-Bissau participating in specialized training sessions at UGANC.

Mercy Ships Country Director, speaking at the event, said, “The inauguration of this center is not only a testament to our commitment to improving healthcare in Africa but also to our belief in the power of education and training to create lasting change. We are proud to partner with UGANC to offer students and professionals the opportunity to develop their skills and serve their communities.”

With its fleet of hospital ships, including the Africa Mercy and Global Mercy, Mercy Ships is able to reach coastal cities where over half of the world’s population resides. These ships serve as mobile hospitals and educational hubs, providing a controlled and safe environment for both patients and volunteers.

Each ship is staffed by 400 to 600 volunteers from around the world, bringing hope and healing to the most underserved populations.

The newly inaugurated Dental Care Training Center at UGANC is poised to play a crucial role in training the next generation of healthcare professionals in Guinea and other West African nations.

Through its innovative approach, Mercy Ships offers free surgeries and dental treatments in developing countries while supporting local healthcare systems with training programs and infrastructure improvements.