A Specialist trainee in Obstetrics and Gynecology in the United Kingdom  from Ghana has been selected to join the Healthcare Leadership Academy (HLA) Scholars programme – a prestigious scholarship set up to develop and nurture healthcare leaders of the future.

After completing a rigorous selection process, Dr. Daniel Darko will be joining the academy’s cohort for the 2021/22 academic year.

Founded in 2016, the HLA scholarship recognises healthcare students and professionals with proven leadership ability and gives them the opportunity to take their leadership skills to the next level.

The HLA aims to inspire and support healthcare students and professionals to change the world of healthcare through leadership, one small step at a time.

Daniel, a Ghanaian by nationality and had his undergraduate Medical education in Ukraine where he held a number of leadership positions including the President of the Ghanaian students association. He holds a master degree in Health Policy, Planning and Management from the University of Ghana. He is currently a specialty trainee based at the South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust where he previously worked as a trust grade doctor.

Speaking about the opportunity, Daniel Darko, said: “The Health Leadership Academy (HLA) has created a niche in raising and empowering next generation of health care leaders through its flagship programs and I am elated to be part of this year’s cohort”

The HLA started with the flagship HLA Scholars programme based in London and since then it has rapidly spread across the UK, with cohorts in London, Newcastle, Bristol, Belfast, and Edinburgh, as well as Amsterdam.

It was formed in response to demand from young clinicians and medical students to learn about leadership. The aim of the programme is to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals and develop their understanding of leadership.

Speaking about this year’s cohort, Johann Malawana, Director of the HLA, said:

“After a rigorous and competitive application process, with over 1,800 people starting the application process, we are delighted to welcome Dr.Daniel Darko to our 2021-2022 scholars.

 “The pandemic has reinforced the need for leaders who inspire, listen and care. At a time of great global challenge, it is important that the next generation of healthcare leaders are motivated, inspired, and prepared in order to best look after the populations they serve.

 “We look forward to seeing what this generation of Scholars achieve with the platform they are given through the HLA and its community.”

 As part of their role, Scholars are expected to develop a community project over the course of the one-year programme, with previous projects having reached national prominence, winning prizes, publications and presentations at national events including at the House of Lords.

Universities and healthcare organisations where previous scholars have been based have benefitted immensely from their staff and students becoming scholars. They have developed high profile projects that have had an impact nationally and internationally.

The HLA is approved by The Institute of Leadership & Management, is a certified member of Social Enterprises UK, and is commissioned by Health Education England North-East and Health Education England South-West. The HLA partners with Medics.Academy and through Medics.Academy its programme is accredited by the Medical School at the University of Central Lancashire. The HLA is also supported by University College London’s Academic Careers Office.

Find out more: https://thehealthcareleadership.academy/