Column: Legal Queen's Shocking Encounter: A Prescription Without Medicine"

By Muhammad Habibat Sani (UmmuYasmeen) 

In a startling visit to the campus clinic yesterday, I was left utterly astounded by the state of healthcare provision for students. My friend, like many others, sought medical assistance only to be handed a prescription by the attending doctor. However, the story took a disheartening twist when we discovered that the clinic had no medicines, no injections, and no drips in stock. This shocking revelation left us with no choice but to venture outside the campus in search of these essential medical supplies, all at our own expense.

This predicament raises serious questions about the adequacy of healthcare services on our campus and the potential dangers it poses to students. Some of our fellow students, already grappling with limited financial resources, found themselves stranded and unable to afford the required medication from an external pharmacy or clinic. Consequently, some had no option but to return to their hostels, a situation that put their well-being in jeopardy.

The Students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University demand accountability from the authorities responsible for the campus clinic. It is not only a matter of inconvenience but a fundamental concern for the safety and health of students. Access to healthcare should be a basic right, and it is unacceptable for students to be left in the lurch, forced to spend their own money on essential medications.

To address this pressing issue, I call upon the university administration to take immediate action. The campus clinic must be adequately stocked with essential medicines, injections, and drips, ensuring that no student is left in a precarious situation due to a lack of resources. Furthermore, a transparent system for reimbursing students who incur out-of-pocket expenses for necessary medical treatment should be established to alleviate financial burdens.

The shocking reality of a clinic without medicine is a situation that demands our attention and swift resolution. As we strive for excellence in our academic pursuits, we should not have to compromise our health and safety. It is my hope that our campus can soon boast a clinic that truly prioritizes the well-being of its students.